New Bill Would Stiffen Penalties
Property owners who convert residential units into illegal hotels will now be subject to fines up to $25,000 under a new bill pending passage, the City Council announced on Wednesday, Sept. 12.
The legislation adds a section to the city’s Administrative Code prohibiting the illegal conversion of permanent residential units.
The legislation will classify the illegal conversion of more than one permanent dwelling unit, or a subsequent violation for an illegal conversion at the same dwelling unit or building, as an immediately hazardous violation.
These changes were made possible by state law amendments which maintain that permanent residential buildings cannot be used transiently.
“Time and time again, we hear from residents who have been pushed out of their homes by landlords looking to make a quick buck,” said Council Speaker Christine C. Quinn. “Our legislation will make sure there
