In 1625, the Dutch West India Company set early building rules for New Amsterdam, laying the groundwork for one of the nation's most comprehensive building codes. By 1674, laws on construction, fire prevention, and sanitation were established. After a deadly tenement fire in 1860, New York City strengthened its building laws and created the position of "Superintendent of Buildings" within the Fire Department.
Established, 1892
NY City creates a separate department known as the Department of Buildings, and in 1936, a unified citywide Department of Buildings was established.