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Key Points & Project Terms

Key Points

While the Guidelines outline information on Department requirements, there are other Codes, and additional detailed and specific trade, industry and equipment standards that are needed for your construction project.

Certain sections of the Construction Code and many of the local regulations do not clearly define the responsible party, e.g. the Owner, Developer, Registered Design Professional, or Contractor. All parties involved in the project may be liable if certain Department or other City Agency requirements are not taken into consideration, resulting in the issuance of violations and fines. It is important that at the start of your project, a review is to ensure all design and construction requirements are incorporated.

Sections of the project level guidelines discuss consequences related to noncompliance with Code and regulatory requirements. However, poorly designed or executed projects may also run into cost overruns, construction site accidents, negative public relations and scheduling delays, which can adversely affect the project.

Key Project Terms

The following is a list of useful terms to use when researching additional information on each of the topics discussed:

Penalties for Work Without a Permit

Performing work without a permit may result in violations, court appearances, and civil/criminal penalties. However, some minor alterations, ordinary repairs, or replacement of faucets, toilets, and sinks do not require permit and someone without a license may do this work as per AC 28-105.4.

Plan Examination and Approval

Your project cannot begin until the project plans are reviewed by a Department Plan Examiner and approved or accepted if Professionally Certified. Disapproved applications result in the issuance of objections that must be resolved before obtaining approval. Professionals schedule appointments with Department Plan Examiners to resolve objections.

Project Application for Permit

Refers to the submission of construction documents prepared by a design professional and filed for approval with Department. In certain cases, design professionals may – with owner’s consent – opt for professional certification of applications (self-certifying compliance with applicable Codes and laws) and not require Department review.

Project Completion

To close the permit issued for the project, the Owner/Applicant/Contractor must ensure the permitted work, once completed, must be inspected for final sign-off and a work completion notification submitted to the Department. In certain cases, at completion of the work a letter of completion may be issued.

Special and Progress Inspections

Certain Special Inspection and Progress Inspections are performed by specialists experienced in the field and registered to perform these inspections with the Department as Special Inspection Agency (SIA). Only registered SIAs, their representatives, or qualified professionals can perform Special and Progress Inspections.

Work Permit

Following project approval, a work permit to begin construction is issued to a licensed Contractor. The Department licenses many trades, and only a registered Contractor can perform work. Department licenses, registrations and certifications regulate the industry and work to prevent unqualified individuals from risking the health, safety and welfare of the public.