Drywells are for the on-site disposal of storm water.

They are required for new buildings or substantial enlargements that are either:

  • Constructed on a property with no public street storm sewer
  • Constructed on a property with no combined sewer in front of the property

This is critical to prevent the flooding of adjacent properties and surrounding areas.

As of March 2016, DOB no longer requires advance notification of a drywell installation. Additionally, DOB inspections and spot checks done during an installation are no longer required.

All other installation requirements remain.

You can learn more:

Online

Learn more about drywell installation requirements.

By Email

DOBCustomerService@buildings.nyc.gov

By Phone

Call 311 or 212-NEW-YORK (212-639-9675) for help.