There are several relevant laws and regulations at the City and State level that impact the use of heating fuel in New York City. Governor Paterson first signed an amendment requiring that all #2 heating oil have sulfur levels at or below 15 parts per million by 2012. By October 2012 all heating oil must contain 2% biodiesel, according to Intro 194-A, passed by the New York City Council. Following that, a City Council law was passed in late February 2011 that phases out the use of numbers 4 and 6 heating oil. This phase-out begins when buildings’ Certificates of Operation expire. Buildings that burn #6 oil will have to convert to #4, #2 or natural gas. Buildings that install new boilers can only install those that burn #2 or natural gas. All buildings must convert to #2 or natural gas by 2030. The deadlines and summaries are as follows:
• July 1, 2012: 8642 A This New York State act amends the State environmental conservation law regarding the sulfur content of number 2 heating fuel. All number 2 heating oil sold for use in New York State must not have a sulfur content greater than 15 parts per million.
• October 1, 2012: New York City Council Intro 194-A This Local Law amends the administrative code of the City to require the use of clean heating oil. After October 1, 2012 all number 2, 4, and 6 heating oil is required to contain at least 2% biodiesel by volume.
• Upon renewal of Certificate of Operation: Amendment to Chapter 2 of Title 15 of the Rules of the City of New York Pertaining to Emissions from the Use of #4 and #6 Fuel Oil in Heat and hot Water Boilers and Burners No renewal of #6 oil. Buildings can convert to #2, 4, or natural gas.
• Upon installation of new boiler: Equipment must use #2 or natural gas.
• 2030: All building must burn either #2 or natural gas.