DOS Violations
Department of Standards
The NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (formerly Department of Standards, DOS) enforces licensing, weights and measures, and consumer protection laws. For building owners, DOS violations typically relate to licensed activities within commercial properties.
Overview
DOS violations are less common for residential property owners but can affect those with commercial tenants. Violations often relate to unlicensed businesses operating in your building, signage compliance, and weight/measure regulations for commercial tenants.
Common DOS Violations
- Unlicensed business operation
- Consumer protection violations
- Signage non-compliance
- Weights and measures violations
- Licensing violations for commercial tenants
- Sidewalk cafe permit violations
- Home improvement contractor violations
- Debt collection practice violations
Penalty Structure
How to Contest DOS Violations
For licensing violations, show proof that the license was obtained or renewed since the violation
If a commercial tenant caused the violation, document your lease terms requiring tenant compliance
Signage violations can often be resolved by correcting the signage before the hearing date
Bring proof of any active license applications that were pending at the time of the violation
Related Agencies
Related Guides
Monitor DOS Violations in Real Time
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