How to Comply with NYC’s Local Law 97

NYC Local Law 97 Compliance: How Building Owners Can Avoid Fines in 2025

New York City’s Local Law 97 is one of the most impactful environmental regulations in the city’s history, requiring buildings over 25,000 square feet to meet strict emissions limits. Designed to significantly cut carbon pollution, this law is a key component of NYC’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050.

Cityscape with green filter

For building owners and property managers, compliance isn’t optional—it’s a legal obligation that carries steep financial penalties for non-compliance. With fines set at $268 per metric ton of CO₂e over the limit, failing to meet emissions requirements could cost property owners hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of dollars.

The key to avoiding fines, reducing operational costs, and staying ahead of future regulations is a well-structured compliance strategy. That’s where Prise comes in. Our team of compliance experts helps property owners navigate Local Law 97, manage deadlines, and implement strategic solutions to ensure compliance—now and in the future.

Local Law 97 Requirements: What You Need to Know

The law applies to:

  • Buildings over 25,000 square feet
  • Properties in a condominium association totaling 50,000+ square feet
  • Certain city-owned and multi-family buildings

Key Deadlines & Emissions Limits

  • May 1, 2025 – First Local Law 97 carbon emissions report due (for 2024 data)
  • 2030 – Emission limits become stricter, requiring further reductions
  • 2050 – NYC’s goal of an 80% citywide emissions reduction

Property owners must submit annual reports showing their buildings are within the legally permitted CO₂e (carbon dioxide equivalent) limits. These limits vary by building type, with stricter targets in 2030 and beyond.

Common Compliance Challenges for Building Owners

Meeting Local Law 97’s mandates isn’t as simple as turning down the thermostat or upgrading a few light fixtures. Many property owners struggle to determine what changes will have the biggest impact—without incurring unnecessary costs.

❌ Challenge 1: Complex Emissions Data & Reporting
✔️ Local Law 97 compliance requires accurate carbon emissions tracking—something many buildings have never done before.

❌ Challenge 2: Identifying Cost-Effective Solutions
✔️ Not every energy upgrade delivers the best ROI. Without expert guidance, property owners risk overspending on solutions that don’t meet compliance goals.

❌ Challenge 3: Changing Regulations & Future Targets
✔️ NYC’s compliance laws evolve frequently, making it difficult for property owners to stay informed and plan for future emission cuts.

Why a Compliance Management Firm is the Smartest Investment

Rather than navigating these challenges alone, property owners are turning to compliance management firms like Prise to develop customized compliance strategies that:

✅ Ensure all deadlines are met, avoiding costly penalties
✅ Identify energy-saving opportunities tailored to each property
✅ Track evolving regulations and future-proof compliance efforts

How Prise Helps Property Owners Stay Compliant

At Prise, we do more than just help property owners avoid fines—we create long-term strategies that improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and position buildings ahead of future regulatory shifts.

 Regulatory Oversight & Deadline Management

  • We track all Local Law 97 deadlines, updates, and requirements.
  • Our team ensures reports are submitted correctly and on time.

Portfolio Compliance Strategies

  • We develop customized plans to meet emissions targets efficiently.
  • We help identify cost-effective upgrades for long-term compliance.

Ongoing Support & Future Planning

  • Compliance doesn’t stop at 2025—Prise provides continuous support to ensure buildings remain compliant as rules change.
  • We help property owners plan for 2030 targets now to prevent last-minute, costly retrofits.

Conclusion

NYC’s sustainability laws are becoming stricter every year. Local Law 97 isn’t just about compliance—it’s about adapting to a greener future while avoiding unnecessary financial penalties.

If your property needs a comprehensive compliance strategy, don’t wait until penalties start adding upContact Prise today and ensure your building meets NYC’s sustainability requirements on time and cost-effectively.

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