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We are responsible for approving the construction of private water and sewer mains, connections to the water and sewer system, repair work on the system, and discharges into the sewer system. This section includes general information and detailed application requirements to assist property owners, Professional Engineers, Registered Architects, and Licensed Master Plumbers in obtaining required approvals, permits and inspections. For quick access to some common forms and documents, visit the Document Portal and select “Water & Sewer” as a topic.
Permit and Review Information System
The Permit and Review Information System (PARIS) allows Licensed Master Plumbers to submit applications and receive approvals (or objections) and permits electronically.
Request Water & Sewer Records
This section provides information on how to obtain DEP water and sewer Records. Please use the Request For Information form to obtain information.
Sewer Certification & Connection Permits
A sewer certification is required for any new connection to a City sewer, a private sewer, a private drain, a septic system, or an approved outlet. Sewer certification may also be required for an alteration or renovation that increases the sanitary and/or storm flow generated on the site.
Private Sewers & Drains
This section includes requirements, application forms and guidelines for the construction of private sewers and private drains. This information is applicable to property owners, professional engineers and registered architects.
Drainage Proposals & Amended Drainage Plans
Learn about the steps for submitting drainage proposals and amended drainage plans to DEP.
Dewatering, Pretreatment, & Scavenger Waste
Businesses that need to discharge into New York City’s sewer system must comply with the Sewer Use Regulations.
Water Service Connections & Private Water Mains
Use this section to find information about permits to tap, plug, or repair/relay water service lines and applications for building private water mains.
Backflow Prevention Devices
Backflow Prevention Devices prevent contaminated water or chemicals from flowing back into the drinking water supply if there is a sudden or unexpected change in water pressure. DEP requires certain businesses to install and operate approved backflow prevention assemblies.
Drilling and Excavation
This section includes drilling and excavation permit guidelines for projects within the five boroughs and information for how to submit a pre-application assessment and schedule a preliminary meeting. This information is applicable to property owners, professional engineers, and registered architects.
Other Guidelines & Reference Materials
This application must be filed by businesses that generate grease/oily liquid waste and/or fine debris (sand/grit/rocks/dirt). Please consult Chapter 10 of the Department of Buildings’ 2014 Construction Codes to determine if your business requires an oil/water separators and/or sand interceptor.
These guidelines provide information on the process for temporary sewer connections from construction trailers or other approved structures located in City mapped streets. The first step in this process is application by a Professional Engineer or Registered Architect for a temporary sewer connection. After a letter of approval is obtained, a Licensed Master Plumber then applies for a permit to connect to the sewer. These guidelines do not apply to temporary sewer connections for construction trailers located within the property line, which should be filed using a Site Connection Proposal form.
These guidelines must be used by Professional Engineers and Registered Architects to create an application for swimming pool discharge approval. The application is submitted in conjunction with a New York City Department of Buildings and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene approval for swimming pool construction. The approval letter resulting from the application will allow the property owner to discharge from the swimming pool into internal sanitary or combined drains connected to the City sanitary sewer or combined sewer. The letter of approval includes limitations on the permissible frequency and flow rate for the discharge.
These guidelines are for Professional Engineers and Registered Architects who are submitting an application for approval of a franchise consent (including force mains) to the New York City Department of Transportation. DEP is one of several agencies that review franchise applications, and the items in the attached guidelines are required for DEP to evaluate impacts to the water and sewer infrastructure.
These guidelines are for Professional Engineers and Registered Architects who are submitting applications for sidewalk café approvals to the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs. DEP is one of several agencies that review sidewalk café applications, and the items in the attached guidelines are required for DEP to evaluate impacts to the water and sewer infrastructure.
Trees are vital components of New York’s infrastructure. Trees contribute to clean air and water, reduce energy costs, increase property values and make streets and parks more beautiful. The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation has jurisdiction over all trees growing in the public right-of-way, including trees along streets, parkways, and in City parks. Parks’ jurisdiction often does not end at the sidewalk but may extend across a front yard or lawn all the way to the building line. Parks’ goal is to preserve and protect this valuable public asset. Careful planning and protective measures can prevent injury and destruction of City-owned trees and help avoid costly project delays, fines or litigation.