How to Handle an Order of Closure (VCLOS)

VCLOS is the order-of-closure code in a Department of Buildings violation number. The types page describes it as a padlock order. That is the label. Zoning violations use ZV. A vacate order uses VAC. Those are different codes. The notice states the premises and the use.

Read the notice

Confirm the number contains VCLOS. An asterisk means the types page marks the item dismissed. Removing a posted order, or going into a padlocked space, is not a paperwork shortcut. The padlock page says removing a posted Order of Closure is illegal, and illegally entering a padlocked property can bring criminal charges.

The Padlock Unit enforces Administrative Code section 28-212.1 and the Zoning Resolution. It stops illegal manufacturing and commercial uses in residential neighborhoods and certain commercial districts. If an OATH judge rules for the Department, the Department issues an Order of Closure, posts closure notices, and padlocks the premises. OATH holds that hearing. OATH is not part of the Department of Buildings and does not issue the summons. Older papers say ECB. Current pages call that summons path OATH.

If a class is printed on a related summons, Class 1 is immediately hazardous, Class 2 is major, and Class 3 is lesser. The class is severity. VCLOS does not set it. Unless OATH dismisses the summons, the condition must still be corrected and a certificate of correction accepted. Paying the penalty does not close the Department record.

What the city is requiring

Follow the order. The sequence the padlock page states is a ruling for the Department, then the Order of Closure, then posted notices and a padlock. The types page does not add a separate penalty table, a cure form, or a number of days under the letters VCLOS. Do not invent them.

The use the order names is the condition that has to be addressed. The classification table lists illegal use in a residential district, a commercial district, and a manufacturing district, plus other Zoning Resolution violations. Those charges are zoning charges. They are relevant when the closure is about that use. They are not extra VCLOS types. A DOB violation for the underlying condition still requires correction and proof to the issuing unit, and there is no court appearance on a DOB violation itself.

What S & M Expediting handles

S & M Expediting researches the VCLOS paper and the summons that went to OATH. We prepare and file the certificate of correction and the related Department filings, and we follow them. When the paper is a summons, we can appear at the OATH hearing.

S & M Expediting is a Class 2 filing representative. We will work with the contractor you have, or if not, we will recommend one from our network. See our DOB violation removal service.

Who does the corrective work

Any work required to end the illegal use is done by the licensed trade the notice requires. We will work with the contractor you have, or if not, we will recommend one from our network.

Call us at 718-833-2333 or email info@sandmexpediting.com. Bring the closure order and the summons number. S & M Expediting is a New York City certified minority- and women-owned business.