How to Fill Out the NYC Community Board Application Form
Open the PDF in FormsPal's online editor and work through each section in order. Start with your personal details including full name, home address, and contact information. Move to the employment section and list your current job title and employer. In the community involvement section, describe your volunteer work, civic participation, or any neighborhood advocacy you have taken part in. Conclude with a short statement explaining why you would be an effective board member and which committees match your interests. When all fields are complete, sign the form in front of a notary and deliver or mail it to your borough president's office before the annual application deadline.
Who Is Eligible to Apply
Any person who lives or works in the community district is eligible to serve on its local board, provided they are at least 18 years old. Active New York City employees may also serve, so long as they do not sit on a board that oversees or contracts with their department. There are no educational or income requirements. Boards are meant to reflect the full range of residents in each neighborhood, so applicants from all professions and backgrounds are welcomed.
When and Where to Submit
The main application period opens in January and runs through March in most boroughs, with appointments announced in spring. If you miss the deadline, many borough presidents accept rolling applications to fill mid-year vacancies, though spots are limited. Submit your completed, notarized form directly to your borough president's office by mail or in person. For follow-up board work after you are appointed, our board meeting minutes template and board resolution form can help you document decisions properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply to boards in more than one district?
You may submit applications to multiple districts, but you can only serve on one board at a time. The borough president will evaluate your suitability for each district you list.
Is this form available to fill out online?
Yes. FormsPal lets you open, complete, and save the community board application as a PDF without needing additional software or a printer.
Are community board members paid?
No. Membership is entirely voluntary and unpaid. The city provides each board with staff support and a modest discretionary budget to fulfill its advisory duties.
How long does the application review take?
The borough president's office reviews all applications received during the open window and typically notifies applicants of appointment decisions in late spring, two to three months after the deadline.
