White Plains, NY Parking Garage Inspection Program

Last updated: July 28, 2026

The city of White Plains has launched a new Parking Garage Inspection Program to establish regular oversight of privately owned parking structures throughout the city. 

Under the program, owners of affected garages are required to submit condition assessment reports evaluating the structural integrity of their facilities. According to the city’s May 2026 announcement, all privately owned garages identified under the program have now submitted their required initial reports. The city reported that 96 garages are subject to the new requirements and outlined how they will oversee ongoing compliance moving forward.

Top Things to Know

• Who must comply: Owners and operators of privately owned parking garages subject to New York State’s Parking Garage Inspection Program.
• Inspection frequency: An initial condition assessment is required, followed by condition assessments at intervals not exceeding three years.
• Licensed professional requirement: All condition assessments must be performed by a New York State licensed Professional Engineer.
• Operating permit requirement: Garages must obtain and renew an annual operating permit through the City of White Plains Building Department.
• Non-compliance risks: Failure to complete required inspections, address unsafe conditions, or obtain permits can result in enforcement actions and operational restrictions.

Why The Program Was Introduced

The program was introduced following the partial collapse of a privately owned parking garage in October 2025. The incident prompted city officials to evaluate how privately owned parking structures are monitored and to establish a formal inspection process aimed at identifying structural concerns before they become safety risks. Through the new program, the city is seeking to improve oversight of aging parking facilities and provide a consistent framework for assessing their condition.

Understanding the Requirements

White Plains’ program is based on New York State regulations outline in 19 NYCRR Section 1203. New York State adopted these requirements in 2018, mandating that most parking garages undergo a structural condition assessment at least once every three years and obtain an operating permit.

In May, White Plains formally established its Private Parking Garage Inspection Program to administer the state's requirements locally, review condition assessment reports, issue operating permits, and monitor compliance.

Under the program, parking garage owners must retain a New York State licensed Professional Engineer to evaluate and document the structural condition of their facility. Additional assessments may also be required if significant deterioration is identified or recommended by the engineer.

Operating Permit Requirements

Garage owners will be issued a one-year Operating Permit, which must be renewed annually once the Building Department:

• Reviews the submitted assessment report and verifies that it includes all information required by New York State and White Plains regulations. 
• Reviews planned capital and ongoing maintenance improvements. 
• Verifies that there are no outstanding Building or Fire Department violations associated with the garage.

What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

Garage owners who fail to meet inspection, reporting, or operating permit requirements may face enforcement actions from the city. In addition, delays in addressing structural deficiencies can increase safety risks, lead to more extensive repairs, and potentially impact a facility’s ability to remain in operation.

Next Steps for Garage Owners

If you own or operate a parking structure in White Plains, now is the time to prepare for ongoing compliance with both New York State requirements and the city’s operating permit program.

Garage owners should:

• Review previous condition assessment reports and note any outstanding recommendations. 
• Confirm when the next required inspection is due. 
• Engage a New York State licensed Professional Engineer with parking structure experience. 
• Address signs of deterioration, corrosion, or water infiltration before conditions worsen. 

How StructureCare Can Help

At StructureCare, we help owners and managers evaluate structural conditions, develop repair strategies, and plan long-term maintenance programs for parking facilities.

Regular inspections and timely maintenance not only support compliance but can also extend the service life of your parking structure and reduce the risk of unexpected repair costs. If your garage is due for an inspection or condition assessment, contact us today to learn how we can help keep your structure safe, compliant, and performing at its best.