Efficient syntheses of dibenz[b,f][1,4]oxazepin-11(10H)-one, 5,10-dihydro-11H-dibenzo[b,e][1,4]diazepin-11-one and 5,11-dihydro-6H-dibenz[b,e]azepin-6-one are described using a tandem reduction-lactamization sequence. Precursors for these ring systems are available in 1-3 steps using nucleophilic aromatic substitution and Ullmann coupling methodology. Direct reduction-lactamization of these compounds using iron powder in acetic acid at 115 degrees affords the target heterocycles in >= 90% yield.