As we approach the first reporting cycle for Local Law 97 (LL97), it’s crucial for building owners and property managers in New York City to ensure compliance with the regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The 2025 LL97 emissions report is a key milestone for buildings as part of the Climate Mobilization Act, and preparing for it now can save you headaches down the road.
Understanding LL97
Local Law 97, enacted in 2019, mandates that large buildings meet specific emissions limits based on their size and occupancy type by 2024. Stricter penalties for non-compliance kick in for subsequent years. The goal of LL97 is to significantly reduce carbon emissions across the city and help meet New York City’s ambitious climate goals.
Buildings that meet the following parameters need to report:
- Exceed 25,000 square feet in floor area
- Are part of a group of buildings that combined exceed 100,000 square feet
This includes residential, commercial, and mixed-use properties.
Key Dates and Deadlines
While 2024 is the year when compliance is first measured, the 2025 report will be the first opportunity for the city to review emissions reductions and issue penalties for non-compliance. Building owners should be mindful of the following key dates:
- 2024: Initial compliance period; buildings must meet emissions reduction targets.
- May 2025: The first LL97 emissions report, which provides an assessment of compliance for the previous year, is due.
Submissions must be made via the DOB’s online portal and require certification from a registered design professional, such as a licensed engineer (PE) or a registered architect (RA).
Latitude Compliance collaborates with building owners and managers to collect precise and thorough energy usage data, ensuring adherence to the new regulations. Our team of LL97 compliance experts is knowledgeable about the requirements and dedicated to helping you produce reports that are both accurate and compliant.
What Are the Consequences of Non-Compliance?
Failing to comply with LL97 can lead to substantial financial penalties. If a building exceeds its emissions limits, building owners will face fines based on the severity of the non-compliance. Thus, proactive measures to reduce emissions not only support environmental goals but also protect your financial interests.
- Financial penalties: The primary consequence is a direct financial penalty based on the amount of excess carbon emissions a building produces, calculated at $268 per metric ton.
- Reporting penalties: Failing to submit required annual emissions reports can also result in additional fines, usually based on the building’s floor area and the length of the reporting delay.
- Reputational impact: Noncompliance can also negatively impact a building owner’s reputation, potentially affecting property value.
- Potential legal action: In extreme cases of noncompliance, legal action may be taken against building owners.
LL97 Emissions Reporting Compliance Help
The countdown to the May 2025 LL97 emissions report deadline draws closer every day so now is the time to act. Evaluating your building’s current emissions, implementing necessary changes and gathering data will prepare you for compliance and help contribute to a more sustainable future.
Contact Latitude Compliance today and take the necessary steps now to ensure that your 2025 LL97 emissions report is ready and compliant!
Posted on behalf of Latitude Compliance
