The Environmental Control Board (ECB) is an administrative tribunal that hears cases involving violations of New York City's quality-of-life laws. These laws serve all New Yorkers by protecting healthy, clean, and safe environmental conditions throughout our City.

While ECB hears and resolves disputes much like a court, there are a few important differences. Quality-of-life violations are not criminal offenses. Therefore, ECB only issues monetary penalties and/or orders to correct violations. Hearings are conducted by Administrative Law Judges (ALJs), lawyers with specialized training who serve as impartial decision-makers. At these hearings, parties can present evidence in order to prove or disprove alleged violations. Cases are not presented in a courtroom and the ALJs do not wear robes. Legal counsel is not required, and most people choose to represent themselves as they give evidence to prove or disprove alleged violations.

On August 12, 2008 Mayor Bloomberg signed legislation into law consolidating ECB under the jurisdiction of OATH. The law will go into effect on or about November 23, 2008.