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LL87

Local Law 87 — Energy Audit and Retro-Commissioning

Local Law 87 requires buildings over 50,000 gross square feet to undergo a comprehensive energy audit and retro-commissioning study every ten years. The audit identifies opportunities to reduce energy consumption, and the retro-commissioning process evaluates whether major building systems are operating as intended. Findings must be filed with DOB.

See when your building's next LL87 energy audit is due.All laws

Who is covered

Buildings exceeding 50,000 gross square feet. The ten-year compliance cycle is determined by the last digit of the building's tax block number.

What the law requires

  • Engage a licensed professional to perform an ASHRAE Level II energy audit covering all major systems.
  • Complete a retro-commissioning study evaluating HVAC, lighting, and building controls.
  • File the combined report with DOB through DOB NOW.
  • While implementing audit recommendations is not mandatory, the findings inform LL97 compliance planning.

Filing frequency and deadlines

Filing frequency

Every 10 years, determined by tax block number.

Key deadlines

Deadline years are based on the last digit of the tax block. Buildings should verify their specific deadline with DOB.

Penalty structure

Non-compliance with LL87 can result in the following penalties:

  • $5,000 per year for failure to file.
  • $500 per month in additional penalties until the filing is completed.

Exemptions

  • Buildings under 50,000 gross square feet.
  • City-owned buildings follow a separate compliance track.

Recent updates and amendments

LL87 findings are increasingly used as the starting point for LL97 carbon reduction planning. Many owners are combining their LL87 energy audit with a LL97 decarbonization roadmap to streamline compliance across both laws.

Reference

NYC Admin Code § 28-308NYC Department of Buildings (DOB)

Official source: NYC Sustainable Buildings — LL87

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