Distant rooftops maybe arranged like New York’s? (7)
I believe the answer is:
skyline
'distant rooftops maybe' is the definition.
(rooftops seen from afar)
I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.
(Other definitions for skyline that I've seen before include "Outline of hills or buildings against firmament" , "Built-up horizon" , "Silhouette or outline of buildings" , "City horizon" , "Horizon; like NY's (anag.)" .)