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NYC Department of Buildings · Owner guide
NYC DOB Protection and Mechanical Methods Permit (PMM)
Protection and Mechanical Methods (PMM) is a NYC DOB work type for qualifying temporary construction equipment and site-protection methods, including certain hoists, chutes, cocoons and overhead protection. It applies when construction activity requires temporary equipment or special protection that is not addressed by a more specific work type.
Start with the DOB Permit Types and Certificates of Operation directory for the complete work-type list, or use the Department of Buildings Table of Content for wider NYC DOB subjects. Check the work scope and responsible applicant before treating an application as an issued authorization.
What Is a Protection and Mechanical Methods Permit?
Protection and Mechanical Methods (PMM) is a DOB work type for qualifying temporary construction equipment and site-protection methods, such as chutes, cocoons, certain hoists and overhead protection.
DOB’s FAQ places debris chutes and material construction hoists within PMM. It distinguishes personnel hoists, which fall under Elevator procedures.
Need help with Protection and Mechanical Methods Permit coordination?
SLK Buildings can help property owners and project teams identify the correct DOB record, organize available project documents, and coordinate next steps with the responsible applicants, contractors and licensed professionals.
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When Does This DOB Authorization Apply?
Deciding whether this authorization applies requires a property-specific review of the proposed work, the existing conditions and the current agency records. In particular, compare site plan identifying temporary equipment and protected areas, along with details of chute, hoist, platform, cocoon or protection assembly.
Protection and Mechanical Methods address how construction work will be performed and what safeguards are needed for the building, adjoining property, and public. The PMM scope can include temporary protection arrangements that differ from permanent foundation or structural work. The design professional should compare the construction sequence and protection details against the plans for Excavation, Support of Excavation, or General Construction where relevant. The existence of a related work permit does not automatically mean every temporary method has been reviewed.
Work Type, Agency and Permit Boundaries
PMM differs from Construction Fence, Sidewalk Shed, Supported Scaffold, Suspended Scaffold and Support of Excavation work types, each of which may require a separate permit.
DOB NOW: Build is the standard current filing platform for this subject. The authorized filer and contractor roles depend on the regulated work, and separate agency permissions may still be necessary.
Steps to Request or Review the DOB Authorization
Use the following sequence to avoid applying against the wrong property record or work scope:
- Confirm the building address, Building Identification Number (BIN), and existing job or equipment record. Check whether the project is new work or an older open job.
- Define the exact work or certificate need with the authorized professional. Compare the project details with the DOB work type and any separate trade or agency approvals.
- The RDP or qualified applicant selects PMM in DOB NOW: Build for eligible equipment and methods. Coordinate other site-protection work types separately where needed.
- Review the submitted filing and DOB status. Address objections, missing documents, required attestations and pre-permit conditions through the authorized applicant.
- Confirm the issued permit or certificate and the approved work limitations before acting. Save the final record and track inspection or completion duties.
Documents and Information to Prepare
The responsible applicant should assemble project-specific information before starting the filing or records review:
- Site plan identifying temporary equipment and protected areas.
- Details of chute, hoist, platform, cocoon or protection assembly.
- Loads, supports, access and public-safety arrangements.
- Related construction job number and other temporary equipment filings.
DOB Review, Inspections and Closeout
Confirm installation, use, inspection and removal requirements. Changes to temporary equipment location or loading may require design and permit reassessment.
An application marked approved, a permit issued and a project signed off are different milestones. Review the applicable status in DOB NOW or BIS, and retain supporting inspection and closeout documentation for the property record.
Prepare a coordinated set of protection drawings, method descriptions, and site-condition information. If construction changes the sequence, temporary supports, or proximity to existing structures, check whether the PMM approval remains applicable. Keep related permits and technical reports organized by work type so an inspection or site question can be traced to the correct filing. Site protection often evolves during a project, and changes should be assessed before the revised method is put into use.
Common Problems to Avoid
Using PMM for a specific separate work type
Check whether SH, FN, SF, SC or SE is the correct permit.
Personnel hoist misidentified
DOB distinguishes personnel hoists from material construction hoists.
Temporary work forgotten at closeout
Track safe removal and completion of the authorized installation.
How SLK Buildings May Assist
SLK Buildings may assist with Protection and Mechanical Methods Permit coordination by reviewing available DOB records, organizing project information and identifying which applicant, licensed contractor or agency contact needs to handle the next action.
The authorized design and trade professionals remain responsible for regulated submissions and work, and DOB controls permit decisions, inspections and completion. Owners can begin by gathering the property address, existing filing numbers and a clear description of the proposed work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are debris chutes filed as PMM?
Yes. DOB FAQs identify debris chutes as PMM work.
Does PMM include a sidewalk shed?
No. Sidewalk sheds have their own SH work type.
Are material and personnel hoists filed the same way?
No. DOB identifies material hoists with PMM and personnel hoists with Elevator work.
Seeking Professional Guidance on NYC DOB Permits and Certificates
Property owners and project teams may need to confirm which DOB authorization applies, distinguish historical permits from current work types, and organize existing drawings, job numbers and approved records. When permits, certificates or multiple trades are involved, the responsible professionals and DOB must determine the permitted scope and required approvals.
SLK Buildings Assists with NYC DOB Permit Coordination
SLK Buildings may help identify the agency process, organize available records, coordinate with owners, contractors and licensed design professionals, and track outstanding requests within an agreed scope. For a project-specific discussion, provide the property address, known job or permit numbers, existing approvals and the work being proposed.
SLK Buildings is an independent consulting and construction-management firm, not affiliated with NYC DOB or any government agency. Information is for general education and is not legal, architectural, engineering or other licensed-professional advice. Qualified providers must perform regulated services. DOB and other agencies control official determinations, and SLK does not guarantee permits, certificates, inspections, approvals or outcomes.