In this Zoning Series, we have discussed the basics of zoning in New York City, rezonings, the transfer of air rights and New York City Board of Standards and Appeals (BSA) variances. What better way to end this series than with a top five list? It may not be as exciting as the top five films or songs of the year, but my top five special permits comes close (or not!).

The below list includes special permits issued by either the New York City Planning Commission (CPC) or the BSA. CPC special permits are subject to the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP), which require public hearings before the local community board, the borough president, the CPC and "call-up" by the city council, and subject to mayoral veto (see Part I of this series).

BSA special permits are not subject to ULURP, but are subject to public hearings before the local Community Board and the BSA. Special permits before the CPC and the BSA are typically accompanied by an environmental assessment statement, which analyzes potential impacts from the proposed development on land use, shadows, urban design and visual resources, transportation, air quality, hazardous materials, open space and noise.