New York City Civil Service Commission – New York, NY

Guardian of the Merit System

Independent Appeals Agency

• The New York City Civil Service Commission (CSC) is an independent, non-mayoral agency tasked with hearing and deciding appeals from city employees and job applicants.
• Disqualification Appeals: Reviews appeals from candidates disqualified from civil service lists due to medical, psychological, or character reasons, ensuring fair treatment in the hiring process.
• Disciplinary Appeals: Hears appeals from permanent civil service employees who have been disciplined by their agencies, providing a check against arbitrary or unjust penalties.

Authority and Process

• Operates under Section 813 of the New York City Charter and the NYS Civil Service Law.
• Review Board: The Commission is comprised of five commissioners appointed by the Mayor, functioning as a quasi-judicial body.
• Decisions made by the CSC are binding on city agencies, upholding the principles of merit and fitness in public service.

Visiting the Commission

• Headquartered in the David N. Dinkins Municipal Building at 1 Centre Street.
• Hearings: Hearings are typically scheduled in advance. Appellants may appear pro se (representing themselves) or with an attorney/representative.
• Security: Strict security protocols are in place. Visitors must pass through metal detectors and present valid government identification.