Why Submit a Pre-App Before Hiring an Architect?

Because you don’t need final designs to start the process.

The PAS focuses on the basics: what’s the site, what do you want to build, and why? NYC Planning doesn’t expect detailed architecture yet. In fact, submitting a pre-app before you invest in design work allows the City to flag issues early—saving you costly rework.

Some benefits of the pre-app process:

  • Understand whether your proposal is feasible under current zoning

  • Identify if your site is in a flood zone, landmark district, or special planning area

  • Get early CEQR (environmental review) guidance

  • Clarify whether your actions qualify as “Type II” under SEQRA/CEQR

  • Learn what land use actions may be required (e.g., zoning map amendment, special permit)

What You’ll Need for a Pre-App

The PAS form is detailed but approachable. You’ll need:

  • Your contact info and basic project description

  • Tax block/lot numbers and street addresses

  • Existing and proposed zoning (if applicable)

  • Visuals: tax maps, zoning maps, land use maps, and a preliminary site plan

  • Narrative explanation: land use rationale, surrounding context, project goals

  • Optional: photos, CEQR assumptions, surveys (if available)

Most of this is high-level and conceptual—not technical. The point is to start a conversation, not finalize a design.

Get Answers Before You Spend

Submitting a pre-app is the most efficient way to test your project’s feasibility in NYC. It gives you a preview of how the City might respond—before you’ve spent significant time or money. Whether your plans are modest or ambitious, this process lays the groundwork for smarter, faster approvals.

Permit Trak can help you take the first step. We specialize in creating preliminary site plans that are tailored for NYC’s pre-app process—giving you a professional, complete package to submit to the Department of City Planning. If you want to save time, avoid costly surprises, and get real feedback from the City before diving into full design, we’re here to help.

Navigating NYC’s Pre-Application Process

If you're planning to build in New York City—whether it’s a single-family home, a mixed-use building, or an industrial facility—the smartest place to start isn’t with an architect or a permit runner. It’s with a Pre-Application Statement (PAS) submitted to the NYC Department of City Planning.

This underused but highly valuable step allows you to get early feedback from City planners before spending tens of thousands on design, engineering, and consultants. It’s low-risk, highly informative, and often saves months of frustration down the line.

What Is the NYC Pre-Application Statement?

The Pre-Application Statement (PAS) is a form that kicks off a conversation with the Department of City Planning (DCP). It tells them you’re considering a land use action—such as a zoning change, special permit, or site redevelopment—and lets them weigh in early.

It's not a formal application or a commitment. It’s your chance to say, "Here’s what I’m thinking—what should I know before I go further?"

Once submitted, DCP assigns staff to review your site and proposal, provide guidance, and identify any major zoning, environmental, or procedural challenges.

Who Should File a Pre-App?

Anyone planning a project that might trigger City review. That includes:

  • Homeowners looking to subdivide, add units, or build anew

  • Developers proposing rezonings, density increases, or housing initiatives

  • Commercial or industrial owners changing use, expanding facilities, or redeveloping sites

If your project might involve discretionary approvals or environmental review—start here.