Mayor Bill de Blasio has signed an order saying people visiting New York City facilities must be able to use restrooms or locker rooms consistent with their gender identity.
The order says people must have access to single-sex facilities consistent with their gender identity at city facilities, including offices, parks, pools and recreation centers.
No identification or proof of gender would be required.
De Blasio, a Democrat, said Monday that every New Yorker should feel safe and welcome -- and that starts with city buildings. He says access to bathrooms is a fundamental right. The city's public schools already have separate rules allowing students to use restrooms according to their gender identity.
An estimated 25,000 transgender or gender non-conforming people live in New York City.
