NY A02257

Amends the definition of "first building permit" to mean a permit that allows actual construction work on the proposed project, not merely site preparation, to commence.

Applies the clarified definition to multiple filing deadlines: the four-year minimum expenditure requirement, five-year construction completion requirement, and one-year final application filing deadline.

Allows applicants whose architects, contractors, or authorized representatives file preliminary applications on their behalf to satisfy the requirement of filing before the first building permit is issued.

Exempts brand-new ground-up construction on property purchased from New York City with a five-year or longer sales restriction from the one-year final application filing deadline, provided other requirements are met.

Takes effect immediately and applies retroactively to construction projects delayed by Hurricane Sandy environmental damage for which decisions are under contested review by a court or the New York City Department of Finance.