When the Department of Consumer Affairs charges a business with a violation of the law, an inspector will give the business operator a notice of violation.

In some cases, an administrative hearing will be scheduled where all the parties in the case will be heard. Businesses are required to attend the hearing. Otherwise, a default decision will be issued, which could result in fines.

The burden of proof is on DCA when a violation is issued. However, if found guilty, the charged business faces penalties. If there is a pattern of violations in the business’s history, it could mean license suspension, revocation, or padlocking the business.

If you have received a notice of hearing from the DCA, you may settle the charge or appear at the administrative hearing.

Hearings are held at the DCA Adjudication Division, located at 66 John Street, 11th floor, New York, NY 10038.

Get DCA's Administrative Hearing Guide
Read more detailed information about the City's business laws
Download the DCA guide What Every Business Should Know (in pdf)