N.Y.C. Admin. Code § FC 2010: Section FC 2010: Helicopter Lift Operations

2010.1 General.

Helicopter lift operations shall be conducted in accordance with this section.

2010.1.1 Department of Buildings approval.

Helicopter lift operations shall not be conducted except when the Commissioner of Buildings has authorized such operation.

2010.2 Permit application.

The owner or operator of the helicopter used to conduct the lift operation shall make application to the department for a permit at least 20 calendar days prior to the proposed lift operation. The permit application shall be on such form and include such information and documentation as the commissioner may require, including the following:

1. A site map of the area in which the lifting operation is proposed to be conducted.

2. Proof of a liability and casualty insurance policy in an amount to be determined by the commissioner but not less than five million dollars. Such insurance policy shall cover the permit holder and the permit holder's employees, agents and contractors from any loss, damage or injury to persons or property by reason of the conduct of the lift operation, or the failure to comply with any requirement of this chapter or the rules, or the terms and conditions of the permit.

3. A copy of the pilot's license issued by the Federal Aviation Administration.

4. A copy of the aircraft's airworthiness certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration.

5. An affidavit of the property owner authorizing the helicopter lift operation on their property.

2010.3 Helicopter fueling.

It shall be unlawful to fuel helicopters in the staging or discharge area.

2010.3.1 Portable fuel tanks.

Portable fuel tanks or drums within or on the exterior of the helicopter are prohibited. Auxiliary fuel storage tanks may be used provided they are an integral part of the aircraft's fuel system and of a type meeting the requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration.

2010.4 Smoking.

It shall be unlawful to smoke within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of a fuel storage area or fueling operation. It shall be unlawful to smoke within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of the helicopter staging area or discharge area while lift operations are being conducted.

2010.5 Staging and discharge areas.

The location of the staging and discharge areas, and their distance from any buildings or other impediments to flight, shall be subject to the approval of the commissioner, and shall be arranged and operated as set forth in FC 2010.5.1 and 2010.5.2.

2010.5.1 Emergency access.

Entrances to and exits from any premises or other location wherein lifting operations are being conducted shall be safeguarded in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations, but shall not be obstructed in a manner that prevents access or egress in the event of an emergency.

2010.5.2 Restricted locations.

Bulk plants or terminals or other premises where hazardous operations or occupancies are maintained shall not be used as a staging area or discharge area unless approved by the commissioner.

2010.6 Fire protection.

An adequate supply of water shall be provided at the location where lifting operations are conducted. When the discharge area or other area of the lifting operation requires the use of a fire pump or other auxiliary equipment to augment the water supply, such equipment shall be under the personal supervision of a certificate of fitness holder.

2010.6.1 Foam protection.

An air foam nozzle, pick-up tube and a minimum of 5 gallons (19 L) of foam, suitable for the fuel hazard presented, shall be available on site.

2010.6.2 Portable fire extinguishers.

Both the staging area and discharge area shall be provided with a minimum of two portable fire extinguishers each having a minimum 80-B:C rating.

2010.6.3 Department monitoring.

Lift operations allowed pursuant to this section may be monitored by representatives of the department to ensure compliance with the requirements of this chapter and the rules. Such representatives shall be allowed within the perimeter of the lift operation for such purpose.

2010.7 Communication.

Radio and/or other two-way wireless communication shall be maintained between the helicopter pilot and the ground at all times during the lift operation. The department representatives monitoring the lifting operation shall be provided with the ability to monitor such communications.

2010.8 Discontinuance.

Department representatives may temporarily suspend or cancel any lifting operation if, in their judgment, conditions exist that endanger public safety.