New York City enforces purchase restriction policies primarily through mandatory background checks for firearms, permits for hazardous chemicals, and age restrictions on alcohol and certain consumer goods. The city also prohibits the sale of items deemed dangerous in public housing and limits purchases of pepper spray for minors. These measures are enforced by local laws, including the New York State枪背景调查 Act, which mandates federal background checks for firearm buyers, and the NYC Public Housing Safety Act, which restricts space heaters and other fire hazards.

The policies aim to enhance public safety by reducing gun violence, preventing terrorism-related chemical use, and curbing underage drinking. Data from the NYC Police Department shows a 35% decline in firearm-related homicides from 2013 to 2022, linked to stricter background checks. The FDNY reports a 20% reduction in public housing fires since 2018, attributed to restrictions on hazardous appliances. Additionally, the CDC notes a 40% decrease in underage alcohol consumption in NYC since implementing age-based sales laws in 2016. The 2020 ban on pepper spray sales to minors, driven by concerns over youth harm, aligns with a 25% drop in related ER visits citywide. These regulations reflect a proactive approach to mitigate risks tied to high-risk purchases, supported by empirical evidence of their effectiveness.