If you’ve ever dealt with the New York City building process, you already know one thing: the NYC Building Code is not always black and white. Even experienced architects, engineers, and contractors run into situations where the rules feel unclear—or where DOB plan examiners interpret them differently.

That’s exactly where the Construction Code Determination (CCD1) form comes in.

A CCD1 is a formal request submitted to the New York City Department of Buildings asking for an official determination on how a specific section of the building code should be applied to a real project. It’s a powerful but often misunderstood tool in DOB expediting and code compliance.

This guide explains what a CCD1 is, when you should file one, and how it fits into the NYC building approval process.

What Is a CCD1 Form?

The Construction Code Determination (CCD1) is used to request a written interpretation from the NYC DOB when there is uncertainty, conflict, or disagreement about how a specific code section applies to a project.

In simple terms, a CCD1 answers questions like:

• Does this building condition comply with the code?

• Which code section applies in this situation?

• Can this alternative approach be accepted?

The response you receive becomes an official DOB determination, which plan examiners and inspectors must follow for that issue.

Why CCD1 Determinations Matter in NYC Construction

NYC construction projects often stall not because the design is unsafe, but because:

• Different DOB examiners interpret code sections differently

• Older buildings don’t fit neatly into modern code language

• zoning, building, and administrative codes overlap

A CCD1 provides clarity and predictability, which can:

• prevent plan rejections

• Reduce DOB objections

• avoid costly redesigns

• support appeals during plan examination

For many projects, a CCD1 is the difference between moving forward and being stuck in review cycles for months.

Common Reasons to File a CCD1

1. Clarifying Building Code Interpretation

One of the most common uses of a CCD1 is to clarify how a specific building code section applies to a unique condition.

This often happens when:

• code language is vague

• Multiple sections seem to conflict

• The building is older or non-standard

Instead of guessing—or arguing with plan examiners—you ask the DOB directly for a determination.

2. Predetermination Before Filing DOB Applications

A CCD1 can be filed before submitting an official DOB application. This is known as predetermination.

It allows owners and design teams to:

• Identify code issues early

• Confirm design strategies before filing

• avoid costly revisions after submission

From a DOB expediting standpoint, this is one of the smartest ways to reduce delays.

3. Requesting Acceptance of an Alternate Code Approach

Some projects require flexibility due to existing conditions, site constraints, or practical limitations.

A CCD1 allows applicants to request DOB acceptance of:

• alternative methods

• equivalent safety solutions

• non-traditional compliance paths

Each CCD1 must focus on one specific issue only, and multiple requests require separate filings and fees.

4. Appealing DOB Plan Examination Objections

If your project is denied or receives objections during plan review, a CCD1 can be used as part of the appeal process.

It allows you to:

• formally challenge a plan examiner’s interpretation

• present technical justification

• obtain a higher-level determination

This is especially common in complex zoning and building code disputes.

What a CCD1 Is NOT Used For

It’s important to understand the limits of a CCD1.

A CCD1 cannot be used for:

• general code compliance reviews

• accessibility waivers

• hardship applications not tied to a specific code interpretation

Those issues follow different DOB processes and filings.

How CCD1 Fits Into DOB Expediting

In professional DOB expediting, CCD1 filings are often used strategically to:

• clear bottlenecks in plan review

• resolve conflicting interpretations

• support complex renovation or alteration projects

However, poorly prepared CCD1 filings can cause delays instead of solving problems. Clear narratives, accurate code references, and strong documentation are critical.

Important Update: New DOB Instructions for CCD1 Filing

As of November 2023, the NYC Department of Buildings changed how CCD1 forms are submitted.

Old Process (No Longer Used)

Previously, applicants had to:

• Prepare a typed CCD1 package

• Attach supporting documents

• Submit payment separately

• Email the package to DOB

• Wait for a control number

New Process (Current)

All CCD1 filings are now completed entirely through DOB NOW:

• Forms are submitted digitally

• documents are uploaded online

• Fees are paid electronically

• No email submission is required

This change streamlined the process but also increased the importance of filing accuracy.

Conclusion

A Construction Code Determination (CCD1) is one of the most valuable—and misunderstood—tools in the NYC building process. When used correctly, it provides clarity, reduces delays, and protects projects from inconsistent code interpretation.

Whether you’re planning a renovation, dealing with DOB objections, or navigating complex building code issues, understanding when and how to use a CCD1 can save significant time and money.

As with most NYC DOB matters, the key is knowing which process applies, when to use it, and how to present it properly.

As I mentioned, CCD1 stands for Construction Code Determination, but if you have the same issue with the zoning, you can file ZRD1, which has the same concept but applies to Zoning Resolution Determination

FAQs: CCD1 Form & Construction Code Determination in NYC

What does CCD1 stand for?

CCD1 stands for Construction Code Determination. It is a formal request for the NYC Department of Buildings to interpret how a specific building code section applies to a project.

When should I file a CCD1 form?

You should file a CCD1 when there is uncertainty, disagreement, or ambiguity about how a building code applies to your project, especially before or during DOB plan examination.

Is a CCD1 required for every DOB project?

No. Most projects do not need a CCD1. It is only necessary when code interpretation issues cannot be resolved through standard plan review.

Can a CCD1 help with DOB objections?

Yes. A CCD1 is often used to appeal or resolve DOB plan examination objections by obtaining an official determination that clarifies the code.

Where do I file a CCD1 now?

All CCD1 filings must be submitted through DOB NOW. Paper submissions and email filings are no longer accepted.