D.C. Mun. Regs. r. 12-A105

Current through Register Vol. 71, No. 23, June 7, 2024
Rule 12-A105 - PERMITS

Strike Section 105 of the International Building Code in its entirety and substitute new Section 105 in the Building Code in its place to read as follows:

105.1

Required Permits. Unless specifically exempted under Section 105.2, an owner or authorized agent who intends to undertake any of the activities se t forth in items 1 through 5 below, or to cause any such work to be done shall first make application to the code official and obtain the required permit(s) relevant to the intended work:

1. Construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, raze, or change the occupancy of a building or other structure; or
2. Erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by the Construction Codes, or to cause any such work to be done; or
3. Install tower cranes or other hoisting devices; or
4. Movement, addition, deletion, relocation or redesignation of any lot line; or
5. Undertake any other activity regulated by the Construction Codes.
105.1.1

Classification of Permits. The code official is authorized to classify a permit application based on the applicant's stated scope of work. Permit classifications may include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Building permits.
2. Raze permits.
3. Demolition permits.
4. Trade permits:
4.1 Electrical.
4.2 Gasfitting.
4.3 Mechanical, including refrigeration and HVAC equipment.
4.4 Plumbing.
4.5 Elevators, escalators and other conveying systems.
4.6 Fire alarm system and fire suppression system permits.
4.7 Boilers and pressure vessels.
5. Sign permits (subject to Sections 105.4.5 and 3107).
6. Site Development permits (including but not limited to foundation, sheeting and shoring, earthwork, retaining walls and civil sitework (BCIV) permits).
7. Miscellaneous permits.
7.1 Projection permits.
7.2 Crane and derrick permits.
7.3 After-hours permits.
7.4 Fences.
8. Permits for other work as may be determined by the code official, and set forth by the Department in administrative bulletins.
105.1.2

Compliance with Code. The permit shall be an authorization to proceed with the work for which the permit was issued during authorized construction hours and shall not be construed as authority to violate, cancel or set aside any of the provisions of the Construction Codes, except as specifically stipulated by modification granted in accordance with Section 104.10.

105.1.3

Authorized Hours for Work Pursuant to a Permit. Authorized hours in the District of Columbia, for work conducted under a permit, are from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, excluding legal public holidays. No work conducted under a permit is authorized on Sundays or legal public holidays without an after-hours permit. Legal public holidays are defined in D.C. Official Code §§ 1-612.02(a) (2016 Repl. & 2019 Supp.).

Exceptions:

1. Interior work exempt from permit requirements, such as interior painting, wallpapering, carpet installation, cleaning or similar activities performed on the interior of a structure shall be allowed outside of authorized construction hours, subject to noise regulations in 20 DCMR.
2. Finishing and weather protection activities of concrete where the code official determines that such activities are critical to achieving the concrete strength specified by the designer of record shall be allowed outside of authorized construction hours, subject to noise regulations in 20 DCMR.
105.1.3.1

Work Outside of Authorized Hours. No person shall engage in any work pursuant to a permit outside of the authorized construction hours specified in Section 105.1.3 including noted exceptions, unless the permit holder has obtained an after- hours permit in compliance with Section 105.4.1.

105.2

Work Exempted from Permit. This Section 105.2 sets forth exemptions from permit requirements, subject to historic and Flood Hazard Area restrictions set forth in Sections 105.2.5 and 105.2.6 respectively. Exemptions from permit requirements of the Construction Codes shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner inviolation of the provisions of the Construction Codes or of any other laws, regulations or ordinances of the District of Columbia.

Building:

1. Brick pointing.
2. Caulking, patching and plaster repair of non-rated assemblies.
3. Installation of window screens and storm windows.
4. Repair in kind of existing fences.
5. Application of a paint, sealant, stain or other coating to a surface that, when dried, leaves a decorative or protective coating over that surface, provided that (a) the application of fire-retardant paint shall require the issuance of a permit, and (b) a permit may be required for such application under certain circumstances specified in Section 105.2.5.
6. Papering, tiling, carpeting, floor covering, cabinets, countertops and similar finish work.
7. Replacement in kind of one of the items listed hereafter. For the purpose of this section, "replacement in kind," means replacement with a feature of like material that replicates the existing feature in proportion, appearance, texture, design, detail and dimensions.
7.1Roof covering or coping.
7.2 Siding.
7.3 Gutters and downspouts and fascia.
7.4 Private sidewalks and driveways where the area of land disturbance does not exceed 50 square feet (4.65 m2).
7.5 Patios where the area of land disturbance does not exceed 50 square feet (4.65 m2).
7.6 Non-rated suspended ceiling tile.
7.7 Not more than 160 square feet (14.9 m2) of gypsum board excluding installation of fire-rated gypsum wall board or shaft liner.
8. A single garden storage shed that does not exceed 50 square feet (4.65 m2) in area, is less than ten feet (3048 mm) in overall height, is an accessory structure to a building of Use Group R- 3 or to a building under the jurisdiction of the Residential Code, and is erected on a lot with no other exempted storage shed.
9. Prefabricated pools, spas or water features, accessory to a Group R- 3 occupancy, or accessory to buildings under the jurisdiction of the Residential Code, which are less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep, do not exceed 1000 gallons (3785.41L), are installed entirely above ground and are not designed or manufactured to be connected to a circulation system.
10. Retaining walls that are not over four feet (1219 mm) in height, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, only where the area of land disturbance does not exceed 50 square feet (4.65 m2).
11. Shade cloth structures constructed for horticultural nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service systems.
12. Swings and other playground equipment accessory to detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses.
13. A tree house or playhouse, no more than 36 square feet, (3.35 m2) in area and accessory to detached one- and two- family dwellings and townhouses.
14. Movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over five feet nine inches (1753 mm) in height.
15. A one-story mausoleum not exceeding 250 square feet (23 m2) in footprint area provided the mausoleum:
(a) is of Type I or II construction;
(b) does not contain any habitable space; and
(c) does not require any utility connections. Notwithstanding the applicability of this permit exemption, the person undertaking the proposed work shall comply with soil erosion and sediment control requirements enforced by Department of Energy and the Environment (21 DCMR Chapter 5).
16. The following signs are exempt from permit requirements:
(a) Signs with an area no greater than 1 square foot (0.09 m2.);
(b) Interior signs that are not substantially visible from the outside of the building;
(c) Temporary signs (for less than 180 days) that are not more than 10 square feet (0.93 m2) in area and which do not use electricity;
(d) Non-commercial signs displayed on private property by the owner or occupant of the property, provided, that the sign:
(i) Is not more than 10 square feet (0.93 m2) in area;
(ii) Does not use electricity; and
(iii) Does not require approval by the Commission of Fine Arts, Historic Preservation Review Board or Historic Preservation Office, Office of Planning, or the Chinatown Steering Committee.
(e) Other signs exempted from permitting requirements by any regulations adopted pursuant to the Sign Legislation.
17. Structures erected for a period of less than 180 days in a 12- month period that cover an area of 150 square feet (13.9 m2) or less and are exempted from permit requirements by Section 3103;
18. Tents and other membrane structures erected for a period of less than 180 days that cover an area of 150 square feet (13.9 m2) or less and are exempted from permit requirements by Section 3103.2 of the Fire Code.
19. Erection or replacement of fixed or retractable awnings projecting 40 inches (1016 mm) or less that are located outside the jurisdiction of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts or the Historic Preservation Review Board, and are not subject to Section 3202.12, where the awnings meet one or more of the following criteria:
1.Awnings installed on detached one- and two- family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade in height with a separate means of egress; or
2.Retractable awnings installed above the first story.

Electrical:

1. Repair portable electrical equipment.
2. Repair lighting fixtures.
3. Repair or replace ballasts, sockets, receptacles, or snap switches.
4. Minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles, and other minor repairs at existing outlets.
5. Electrical equipment used for radio and television transmissions; however, a permit is required for equipment and wiring for a power supply and the installations of towers and antennas.
6. Listed cord-and-plug connected temporary decorative lighting.
7. Reinstallation of plug receptacles but no t the outlets thereof.
8. Replacement of branch circuit overcurrent devices of the required capacity in the same location.
9. Installation of any temporary system required for the testing or servicing of electrical equipment or apparatus.

Gas:

1. Portable heating appliances.
2. Connection of cooking or clothes drying appliances.
3. Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.
4. Portable- fuel-cell appliances that are not connected to a fixed piping system and are not interconnected to a power grid.

Mechanical:

1. Portable heating appliances.
2. Portable ventilation appliances.
3. Portable cooling units.
4. Steam, hot or chilled water piping within any heating or cooling equipment or appliances regulated by the Construction Codes.
5. Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.
6. Portable evaporative coolers.
7. Self-contained refrigerating systems containing 10 pounds (5 kg) or less of refrigerant or that are actuated by motors of 1 horsepower (746 W) or less.
8. Portable- fuel-cell appliances that are not connected to a fixed piping system and are not interconnected to a power grid.

Plumbing:

1. The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent pipe, provided, however, that if any concealed trap, drainage, water, soil, waste or vent pipe becomes defective and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material, such work shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be obtained and inspection made as provided in the Construction Codes.
2. The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures, and the removal and reinstallation of water closets, provided such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes, or fixtures.
3. Repair or replacement of water meters performed by DC Water.
4. Replacement of kitchen and bathroom sink or faucet, supply lines and exposed "p" trap within detached one- and two- family dwellings and townhouses.
5. Replacement of a water closet or water closet seal within detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses.
105.2.1

[Reserved].

105.2.2

Ordinary Repairs. Permits are not required for ordinary repairs to buildings, other structures or equipment. Ordinary repairs shall not include:

1. The cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof, the removal or cutting of any structural beam or load bearing support, or the removal or change of any required means of egress, or rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the egress requirements; or
2. Addition to, alteration of, replacement or relocation of any standpipe, water supply, sewer, drainage, drain leader, gas, soil, waste, vent or similar piping, electric wiring or mechanical or other work affecting public health or general safety.
105.2.3

Public Service Agencies. A permit shall not be required under the Construction Codes for the installation, alteration or repair of equipment and facilities used for generation, transmission, distribution, metering or treatment that is under the ownership or control of public service agencies subject to the jurisdiction of the District of Columbia Public Services Commission or DC Water.

Except ion: For projects of public service agencies involving land-disturbing activities or major substantial improvement activities as defined in 21 DCMR Chapter 5, and for all work described in Sections 105.2.5 and 105.2.6, a public service agency shall be required to submit a permit application and, as applicable, thereafter obtain a permit for such project.

105.2.4

Permit Exemptions Subject to Public Space Requirements. When the proposed scope of work would qualify to be exempted from permit pursuant to Section 105.2 of this chapter, and the work is to occur wholly or partially on public space, the applicant shall be responsible for obtaining all public space permit(s) that are required by DDOT.

105.2.5

Permit Exemptions Not Applicable in Historic Districts or to Historically Designated Structures. When the proposed scope of work would qualify to be exempted from permit pursuant to Section 105.2 of this chapter, and the work is to occur on the land of or the exterior of buildings or other structures located in historic districts, or of historically designated buildings or other structures, an application for a building permit subject only to historic preservation review pursuant to Section 105.1 shall be required for the following work described in Section 105.2 Building :

1. Brick pointing;
4. Repair or replacement of fences, except as deemed an ordinary repair;
5. Painting of unpainted exterior masonry at a landmark property;
7. Replacement in kind of one of the listed items (except for interior ceiling tile and gypsum board);
8. Garden storage shed;
9. Prefabricated pools; and
10. Retaining walls. The code official shall not issue a permit based on an application subject solely to historic preservation review under this section without the prior review and approval of the Historic Preservation Office.
105.2.6

Permit Exemptions Not Applicable in Flood Hazard Areas. When the proposed scope of work would qualify to be exempted from permit requirements pursuant to Section 105.2 of this chapter, and the work is to occur on premises wholly or partially within a Flood Hazard Area, an application for a permit subject only to review by the Floodplain Administrator shall be required. The code official shall not issue a permit based on an application subject solely to review by the Floodplain Administrator under this section without the prior review and approval of the Floodplain Administrator regarding the disposition of the permit application by the code official.

105.3

Application for Permit. To obtain a permit, the applicant (as defined in Section 105.3.1) shall submit an application for a permit in the form prescribed and provided by the code official. Where a permit is required, it shall be obtained by the applicant prior to the commencement of corresponding work, except as provided in Section 105.4.6.

105.3.1

Authorized Applicant. Permit applications shall be submitted by the owner or lessee of the premises, or an authorized agent of either. (The persons referred to in 105.3.1 and 105.3.1.1 are referred to collectively as the "applicant").

105.3.1.1

Trade Permit Applicant. A trade permit application shall be submitted only by, or on behalf of, the D.C.-licensed master tradesperson who is to be responsible for supervising the work to be done under a trade permit when issued.

105.3.1.2

Change in Applicant. Where a change in the applicant is proposed or occurs during the pendency of an unexpired permit application, whether as the result of a transfer of the premises or other circumstances, the permit application shall be deemed abandoned pursuant to Section 105.10 unless:

1.

The applicant of record notifies the code official of a change in applicant; and

2. The new applicant submits information required by the code official on an approved form.

If these actions are not completed by (a) the date that is 30 days after the date on which the change of applicant occurs, or (b) the date on which the permit application is approved, whichever is earlier, the permit application shall be deemed abandoned as of such date.

Exception: Trade permit applications are not transferable.

105.3.2

Form and Content of Application. Unless otherwise specified by the code official, the application shall:

1. Be accompanied by any filing fee deposit required pursuant to Section 108.2.1.1 and any other fees required by the code official to be paid at the time of filing.

All other fees shall be paid prior to issuance of the permit pursuant to Section 108.

2. Clearly identify and describe the work to be covered by the permit for which application is made.
3. Describe the premises on which the proposed work is to be done by address and lot and square.
4. Provide sufficient information clearly distinguishing the existing use of the premises, or relevant portion thereof, from the proposed use.
5. Indicate the use and occupancy for which the proposed work is intended.
6. Be accompanied by a fully completed intake form and supporting submittal documents as required by Section 106.

Exception: Submittal documents are not required for permit applications proposing only a change of use or occupant load where no proposed alterations are to be made. If a code compliance issue needs to be addressed following inspection of the premises, submittal documents shall be submitted as directed by the code official.

7. Include an accurate breakdown of construction valuation in accordance with Section 108.3.
8. Include name and contact information, including a valid electronic mail address, for all of the following:
8.1 The applicant;
8.2 The permit expediter (if applicable); and
8.3 The D.C. licensed general contractor or construction manager (if known when the application is filed; if not known at the time of filing, this information shall be provided to the code official by the applicant as soon as the general contractor or construction manager is selected, but no later than the scheduling of the first inspection).
9. Include the name and contact information, including a valid electronic mail address, for the person designated to receive Department communications relating to t he application and for electronic service of notices and orders related to the permit based on the application.
10. Include the applicant's certification that the information provided in the application is true and correct to the best of the applicant's knowledge, and acknowledging that a false statement in an application may subject the applicant to penalties as listed in Section 105.3.3. Submission of an online application shall be deemed to constitute the certification required under this section.
11. Include the additional information required by Appendix G, Section G104, if the development site is located wholly or partially within a flood hazard area, including, but not limited to an elevation certificate or floodproofing certificate where required.
12. Include the "Standards of External Effects" application required by the District of Columbia Zoning Regulations (11-U DCMR, Section 805) if the property is located in a PDR District.
13. Include a list of names and addresses of owners of adjoining premises as identified in the Real Property Tax Database maintained by the Office of Tax and Revenue of the Office of the Chief Financial Officer for work subject to notification requirements in Sections 105.7 and/or 106.2.18.3.
14. Include the name, signature, and license number of the licensed master tradesperson, or licensed elevator contractor or elevator mechanic, responsible for supervising the work as required by Sections 105.4.3 and 105.8, for trade permit applications to authorize work in electrical, mechanical, plumbing, fuel gas systems, or elevators and other conveying systems.
15. Be signed by the applicant (as defined in Section 105.3.1.). Submission of an online application shall satisfy this requirement.
16. Provide such other data and information as required by the code official.
105.3.3

Penalties for False Statements. False statements in an application shall constitute grounds for permit revocation pursuant to Section 111. Applicants are also subject to criminal penalties pursuant to Section 404 of the District of Columbia Theft and White Collar Crimes Act of 1982, effective December 1, 1982 (D.C. Law 4-164; D.C. Official Code § 22-2405 (2012 Repl. & 2019 Supp.)) for false statements.

105.3.4

Responsibility to Maintain Current Electronic Mail Address. While applications are pending for processing and after issuance of a permit, applicants and permit holders are required to inform the Department within five days of any changes to the electronic mailing addresses provided in the underlying permit application as specified in Section 105.3.2, Items 8 and 9. The Department will provide any required notices or orders to the electronic mail address submitted with the permit application as updated in compliance with this subsection.

105.3.5

Time Limitation of Application. An application for a permit for any proposed work shall be deemed to have been abandoned:

1. 180 days after the date of filing, unless such application has been pursued in good faith, an extension has been granted pursuant to Section 105.3.5.1, or a permit has been issued; or
2. Where a change in the applicant occurs and the applicant of record and/or the new applicant fail to comply with the requirements of Section 105.3.1.2.
105.3.5.1

Extension of Application Time Limitation. The code official is authorized to grant a maximum of two extensions of time, not exceeding 180 days each, for agency consideration of a permit application, provided that the extension is requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated. Refunds of the unused portion of the application file deposit shall be made pursuant to Section 108.6.

105.4

Additional Provisions Applicable to Certain Permits.

105.4.1

After-Hours Permit. No person shall engage in any work pursuant to a permit outside of the authorized construction hours specified in Section 105.1.2 including noted exceptions, unless the permit holder has obtained an after-hours permit pursuant to the procedures established by the code official. Any work authorized by an after- hours permit shall comply with noise regulations set forth in 20 DCMR and to the conditions set forth in Section 105.4.1.1.

105.4.1.1

After-Hours Permit Impacting Residential Premises. No permit application for after-hours work in or within 500 feet (152 400 mm) of a Residence District or a Special Purpose District, or within 500 feet (152 400 mm) of a premises with an R occupancy as defined in Chapter 3 of the Building Code, shall be approved by the code official without written comments or recommendations of:

(a) any Advisory Neighborhood Commission(s) (ANC) whose boundaries (i) encompass the premises where the after-hours work will take place or (ii) are within 500 feet (152 400 mm) of the premises where the after- hours work will take place (collectively the "affected premises"); or
(b) the ANC Commissioner for the single- member ANC District(s) in which the affected premises are located (or, where such a seat is vacant, the ANC Chair or the ANC Chair's designee).

Exceptions The code official is authorized to issue an after-hours permit without the ANC or ANC Commissioner comments or recommendations required by Section 105.4.1.1:

1. Where the code official determines that emergency conditions exist requiring the after-hours work; or
2. Where the code official determines that the public interest necessitates the after- hours work.

105.4.2

Annual Permit. In lieu of an individual permit for each alteration to an existing approved electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the code official is authorized, upon application therefor, to issue an annual permit allowing alterations to such installations to any person, firm or corporation regularly employing one or more qualified tradespersons in the building, other structure or on the premises owned or operated by the applicant for the permit.

105.4.2.1

Annual Permit Records. The person or entity to whom an annual permit is issued shall keep a detailed record of alterations made under such annual permit. The code official shall have access to such records at all times or such records shall be filed with the code official as designated.

105.4.3

Trade Permits. A trade permit is required for any work involving electrical, gasfitting, mechanical, plumbing, elevators and other conveying systems, and boilers, unless the work is exempted from permit requirements by Section 105.2. Trade permits shall be issued only where the following criteria are met:

1. Where required by Section 105.8., the person applying for the trade permit must be a master tradesperson licensed in the District of Columbia who will be responsible for performing or supervising the work to be done under such permit in compliance with the licensing requirements for specific trades as set forth in Section 105.8; and
2. Trade permits must be associated with a building permit, except in the following circumstances:
a. Where the code official determines that the scope of work is such that review of submittal documents is not required pursuant to Section 106.1; or
b. Where the code official determines that, based on the scope of work proposed, the submission of shop drawings is sufficient to ascertain compliance with the Construction Codes and the applicant submits shop drawings as required by the code official with the trade permit application.
105.4.4

Raze Permits. Before a raze permit is issued, the owner of the building or other structure to be razed, or the owner's agent, shall post and maintain a notice furnished by the code official on the premises where the building or other structure is located. The notice shall front on the street of address of the building or other structure, or as designated by the code official, so as to be readable from the public way. The raze permit shall not be issued by the code official until the applicant provides an affidavit to the Department affirming that the notice has been posted and maintained as required by this section for at least 30 days. This notification requirement shall not apply to any emergency raze ordered by the code official.

105.4.4.1

Other Requirements. Prior to issuing a raze permit, the code official is authorized to require the applicant to submit other clearances and/or information that the code official deems necessary, including, but not limited to, asbestos removal, utility disconnects, grading plans, and historic preservation.

105.4.4.2

Fee. The applicant for a raze permit shall pay a fee for the furnishing of the notice required under Section 105.1.3.4 in accordance with the applicable fee schedule published in the D.C. Register, as amended from time to time.

105.4.4.3

Fines. Violations of this section shall be deemed a Class 3 infraction pursuant to 16 DCMR § 3200.

105.4.4.4

Additional Notifications Required. Applicants for raze permits are also required to comply with Section 106.2.18 where the raze work involves any structural work within 3 feet of an adjoining lot line or excavation work more than 3 feet below existing grade.

105.4.5

Sign Permits. To the extent that the code official is designated as the permitting and enforcement official for signs, pursuant to the Sign Legislation (as defined in Section 202.2) a, the duties and powers of the code official shall be governed by:

(a) Chapter 1, 12-A DCMR and
(b) Chapter 1, 12-G DCMR, including, but not limited to, the code official's authority to receive applications, to review submittal documents and issue permits, to institute administrative and legal actions to correct violations or infractions, and to inspect premises.
105.4.5.1

Adoption of Superseding Sign Regulations. Applicability of Construction Codes to Signs. Signs shall be designed, constructed installed, displayed and maintained in accordance with the requirements of the Construction Codes including, but not limited to, Building Code Appendix N, which is hereby expressly adopted and incorporated by reference, and Chapters 7, 15, 16 and 26, except to the extent that such requirements are superseded by regulations adopted by the District of Columbia pursuant to the Sign Legislation.

105.4.6

Permits for Emergency Work. When necessary to make emergency repairs or replacements to buildings, other structures or systems, an application for a permit to cover all emergency work shall be submitted no later than the first business day following the performance of such emergency work.

105.4.7

Site Development Permits. The code official is authorized to issue a site development permit for earth retention or the construction of foundations before the entire plans and specifications for the whole building or other structure have been submitted, provided adequate information and detailed statements have been filed complying with all pertinent requirements of the Construction Codes. Issuance of a site development permit by the code official does not constitute assurance that a permit for the entire building or structure will be granted. The holder of a site development permit proceeds with the construction at the holder's own risk and without assurance that a permit for the entire building or other structure will be granted.

105.5

Action on Application. The code official shall examine or cause to be examined all applications for permit and amendments to applications within a reasonable time after filing. The code official may reject an application at the time of filing if the application and required supporting documents are not substantially complete. If the application or the plans do not conform to the requirements of all pertinent laws, the code official is authorized to reject such application. The code official shall state the reasons for the rejection in writing, citing specific sections of the Construction Codes, and stating the applicant's right of appeal under Section 112. If the code official is satisfied that the proposed work conforms to the requirements of the Construction Codes and all applicable laws, rules, and regulations, the code official shall issue a permit as soon as practicable.

105.5.1

Plan Review by Third-Party Agency. An applicant shall have the option of using an approved third-party agency to perform a code compliance review of a project, at the applicant's expense, pursuant and subject to the provisions of: this Section 105.5.1; D.C. Official Code § 6-1405.02 (2018 Repl.)); and the Third-Party Program Procedure Manual.

105.5.1.1

Notification of Intent to Use Third-Party Agency for Plan Review. Where a permit applicant wants to use a third-party agency for plan review, the applicant shall notify the Department of its intent in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Third Party Program Procedure Manual.

105.5.1.2

Acceptance of Certification by Third-Party Agency. The code official is authorized to accept a certification, signed and sealed by the professional- in-charge of the approved third-party agency, in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Third Party Program Procedure Manual. The Department shall complete its review within 15 business days after the date of submission of a complete application package to the Department, including the required third-party certification. The code official's issuance of related permits will be subject to receipt of any required approvals from other reviewing agencies, and compliance with applicable adjoining premises notification requirements.

105.5.2

Stormwater Management and Erosion and Sediment Control. A permit shall not be issued for a "major substantial improvement activity" (as defined by 21 DCMR Chapter 5) or a land-disturbing activity regulated by 21 DCMR Chapter 5, until the submitted plans reflect the pertinent features approved by the official charged with the administration and enforcement of 21 DCMR Chapter 5, and the requirements of the Water Pollution Control Act of 1984, effective March 16, 1985 (D.C. Law 5-188; D.C. Official Code §§ 8-103.01et seq. (2013 Repl. & 2019 Supp.)) as amended.

105.5.3

Flood Hazard Areas. A permit shall not be issued for work within the scope of Appendix G without review and receipt of comments and recommendations from the Floodplain Administrator concerning the code official's disposition of the application, as required therein.

105.5.4

Additional Grounds for Permit Denial. The code official is authorized to deny issuance of a permit to an applicant:

1. Pursuant to D.C. Official Code § 6-1407.01; or
2. Where the owner, applicant, general contractor, construction manager, home improvement contractor, registered design professional, registered design professional in responsible charge, or responsible officer has outstanding fines, penalties, notices or orders imposed under the Construction Codes, or if the code official determines that the owner, applicant, general contractor, construction manager, home improvement contractor, registered design professional, registered design professional in responsible charge, or responsible officer is in violation of any provision of the Construction Codes.
105.5.4.1

Code Official Authority. For purposes of Section 105.5.4 and 105.5.5, the code official is authorized to request additional information from an applicant to determine whether the applicant has filed under a new organizational form or name, in order to avoid either permit denial under the provisions of Section 105.5.4 or posting of fine amounts under Section 105.5.5.

105.5.5

Outstanding Fines for Illegal Construction. Where civil infraction citations for illegal construction under Section 113.1 have been issued to an applicant, all applicable fine amounts must be posted with the Treasurer of the District of Columbia by the applicant, prior to the issuance of any permit to the applicant. Upon adjudication of said civil infraction citations, any fines or penalties not assessed to the applicant will be refunded. The code official in his or her discretion may reduce the amount of the fines required to be posted.

105.5.6

Approval of Construction Documents. When the code official issues a permit, the construction documents shall be approved, in writing or by stamp, as "Approved." Unless submitted electronically, one set of approved construction documents so reviewed by the code official shall be retained by the code official and the other sets shall be returned to the applicant.

105.5.7

Signature on Permit. The code official's signature shall be attached to every permit, or the code official may authorize a subordinate to affix a facsimile of the code official's signature to permits. The code official's signature shall not be construed as indicating that the construction complies with any other requirement of District law or regulation other than the Construction Codes and the Zoning Regulations.

105.6

Posting of Permit. The permit, or a copy thereof, shall be kept on the work site and conspicuously displayed at a location visible from the street until the completion of work for which the permit is issued. Public information deemed relevant by the code official for all permits issued by the Department shall be published on the Department's website.

105.6.1

On-Site Retention of Construction Documents. A legible, printed copy of approved construction documents for each permit, of a size sufficient to see all details, shall be kept on-site at all times until a certificate of occupancy for the premises subject to the permit is issued or until completion of the work and approval of the final inspection for the work performed at the premises under the permit if no certificate of occupancy or new certificate of occupancy is required.

105.7

Notification of Owners of Adjoining Premises in Certain Districts. Upon issuance of a permit authorizing work on a premises in a Residential, Special Purpose or Mixed Use District, and prior to commencing that work, the permit holder shall provide written notice on an approved form to each owner of a one-family or two- family dwelling on a lot adjoining the premises on which the work is authorized pursuant to the permit. Delivery of the notification required by this section will be satisfied by mailing the required form to the owner of record of the adjoining premises by first-class mail at the address listed in the Real Property Assessment Database maintained by the District of Columbia Office of Tax and Revenue.

105.8

Duties of Persons Performing Work Pursuant to a Permit. No person shall undertake work pursuant to a permit required by Section 105 without possessing a valid and appropriate business license, professional license and/or trade license in the District of Columbia, pursuant to D.C. Official Code §§ 47-2853.01et seq., and Titles 16 and 17 DCMR, as applicable.

105.8.1

General Contractors, Construction Managers and Home Improvement Contractors. General contractors, construction managers and home improvement contractors are responsible for hiring and/or subcontracting with persons who possess the appropriate license(s) to perform the work, and shall, at all times, be responsible for the proper supervision and inspection of the work and to perform the work in compliance with the Construction Codes and the approved construction documents. The general contractor, construction manager or home improvement contractor is responsible to employ or subcontract with at least one master or qualified individual of the appropriate category to perform the duties of a master or qualified individual for trade permits as specified in Section 105.8.2. Upon request by the code official, the general contractor, construction manager or home improvement contractor shall provide a written listing of persons holding qualifications specified in Sections 105.8.2.1 through 105.8.2.5, and other employees or subcontractors, with their respective D.C. license numbers, for each permit in effect.

105.8.2

Performance of Work Pursuant to Trade Permit. The person to whom a trade permit is issued shall be responsible for performing or supervising the work to be performed under such permit. Work in electrical systems, refrigeration or air conditioning systems, plumbing systems, fuel gas systems, and elevator and conveying systems that requires a permit shall be performed and supervised in accordance with Sections 105.8.2.1 through 105.8.2.5. Registration and licensure requirements of the applicable tradespersons shall be pursuant to D.C. Official Code §§ 47-2853.01et seq. (2015 Repl. & 2019 Supp.) and Titles 16 and 17 DCMR. The code official is authorized to request current proof of compliance with this section in the course of inspections of such work.

105.8.2.1

Electrical Trades. Electrical work requiring a permit shall be performed by a licensed master electrician, a licensed master electrician limited (low voltage), a licensed journeyman electrician, or a registered apprentice electrician under the supervision of a licensed master electrician. A licensed master electrician limited (low voltage) shall be authorized to supervise electrical work in low voltage systems. Licensure and registration requirements for these tradespersons shall be pursuant to D.C Official Code §§ 47-2853.91 through 47-2853.93 (2015 Repl. & 2019 Supp.) and Title 17 DCMR, Chapter 2.

105.8.2.2

Mechanical Trades. Refrigeration and air-conditioning work requiring a permit shall be performed by a licensed master mechanic, a licensed master mechanic limited, a licensed journeyman refrigeration and air-conditioning mechanic, or a registered apprentice refrigeration and air-conditioning mechanic under the supervision of a licensed master mechanic. A licensed master mechanic limited shall be authorized to supervise refrigeration and air-conditioning work in systems less than 25 compressor horsepower. Licensure and registration requirements for these tradespersons shall be pursuant to D.C Official Code §§ 47-2853.201 through 47-2853.203 (2015 Repl.) and Title 17 DCMR, Chapters 3 and 15.

105.8.2.3

Plumbing Trades. Plumbing work requiring a permit shall be performed by a licensed master plumber/gasfitter, a licensed master gasfitter, a licensed journeyman plumber, a licensed journeyman gasfitter, or a registered apprentice plumber under the supervision of a licensed master plumber/gasfitter. Licensure and registration requirements for these tradespersons shall be pursuant to D.C. Official Code §§ 47-2853.121 through 47-2853.123 (2015 Repl. & 2019 Supp.).

105.8.2.4

Gasfitting Trades. Gasfitting work requiring a permit shall be performed by a licensed master plumber/gasfitter, a licensed master gasfitter, a licensed journeyman plumber, a licensed journeyman gasfitter, a registered apprentice plumber, or a registered apprentice gasfitter under the supervision of a licensed master plumber/gasfitter or of a licensed master gasfitter.

Licensure and registration requirements for these tradespersons shall be pursuant to D.C Official Code §§ 47-2853.121 through 47-2853.123 (2015 Repl. & 2019 Supp.).

105.8.2.5

Elevator and Conveying Systems Trades. Work in elevators and conveying systems requiring a permit shall be performed by a licensed elevator contractor, an employee of a licensed elevator contractor, a licensed elevator mechanic, or a registered apprentice elevator mechanic under the supervision of a licensed elevator contractor or a licensed elevator mechanic. Licensure and registration requirements for these tradespersons shall be pursuant to D.C Official Code §§ 47-2853.95 through 47-2853.99 (2015 Repl. & 2019 Supp.).

105.9

Permit Revisions. The holder of a valid active permit shall be authorized to amend it or to amend the plans, application or other records pertaining to the permit by filing, at any time before completion of the work for which the original permit was issued, by submitting an application for permit revision, accompanied by a copy of the originally approved submittal documents and, unless submitted electronically, by two sets of the revised plans. If the code official approves a permit revision, and a revised permit is issued, it shall be deemed part of the original permit and shall be kept therewith in the official records of the Department. A revision permit shall become invalid upon expiration of the original permit it amends. The extension provisions of Section 105.5.1 shall apply to the original permit and shall only affect the respective revision permits to the extent that the original permit is extended.

105.9.1

Code Official Authority. Nothing herein shall preclude the code official from requiring submission of a new permit application, in lieu of permit revisions.

105.10

Expiration of Permit. Any permit issued shall become null and void, upon occurrence of any one of the following circumstances, unless a permit extension has been obtained under Section 105.11:

1. The authorized work is not begun within 12 months after the permit is issued, or within 180 days after the permit is issued where the permit is issued for work (a) regulated by the Residential Code or (b) to occur on premises located wholly or partially within a Flood Hazard Area; or
2. The authorized work is suspended or abandoned for a period of 12 months, or for 180 days for permits issued for work (a) regulated by the Residential Code or (b) to occur on premises located wholly or partially within a Flood Hazard Area; or
3. The authorized work has not received inspection approval or partial inspection approval for at least one inspection required by Section 109 within a period of 12 months, or within a period of 180 days for permits issued for work (a) regulated by the Residential Code or (b) to occur on premises located wholly or partially within a Flood Hazard Area, which period shall commence on the later of (i) the date authorized work is begun or (ii) the date of the last approved inspection or partial inspection; or
4. The authorized work has not obtained final inspection approval within 48 months after the permit is issued unless the code official grants an extension under Section 105.11.
105.10.1

Expiration of Permits for Unsafe, Abandoned or Deteriorated Premises.

Any permit issued for work on premises that have been deemed to be unsafe or unfit for human occupancy (in accordance with Sections 115 or 116 of the Building Code or Sections 108 or 109 of the Property Maintenance Code), or abandoned or deteriorated property (in accordance with D.C. Official Code §§ 42-3171.01et seq. (2012 Repl.)), shall become null and void if the authorized work is not begun within 30 days after the permit is issued and completed within six months after the date work is begun, unless the permit is extended in accordance with Section 105.11. If the work has not been completed within the 180 day period or any extension period granted by the code official, the Department is authorized to complete the work in accordance with D.C. Official Code §§ 42-3131.01et seq. (2012 Repl.) and to seek any other remedies or penalties authorized by law, including monetary fines, criminal prosecution, or court orders directing correction or abatement of the violation.

105.10.2

Suspended or Abandoned Work. In determining whether work has been suspended or abandoned under Section 105.10, the code official shall have the right to request documentation from the permit holder and to inspect the premises for which the permit has been granted.

105.10.3

Reinstatement of Expired Permit. The code official has the authority to reinstate, in writing, an expired permit upon a showing of applicable extenuating circumstances.

105.11

Extension of Permit. A permit may be extended upon written request, prior to expiration and upon a showing of good cause subject to the conditions set forth in this section. The code official is authorized to grant no more than four extensions of time, no t to exceed 180 days per extension. In no event shall the aggregate extensions of time exceed two years. The code official shall have the discretion to inspect the premises for which a permit extension has been requested prior to granting an extension.

105.11.1

Permits for Single-Family Dwellings. Notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 105.10 and 105.11, the code official is authorized to impose a three- year time limit to complete construction of new detached single- family dwellings, additions to detached single- family dwellings and new residential accessory structures. The time limit shall begin from the issuance date of the permit. The code official is authorized to grant extensions of time if the applicant can demonstrate substantive progress, characterized by approved inspections as specified in this code of at least one inspection within a period of six months or other evidence that would indicate substantial work has been performed.

105.12

Change in Permit Holder. Where a change in the permit holder of a valid, unexpired permit is proposed or occurs, whether as the result of a transfer of the premises or other circumstances, the permit shall be deemed null and void unless, within 30 days after the date on which the change of permit holder occurs:

1. The permit holder of record notifies the code official of a change in permit holder; and
2. The new permit holder submits information required by the code official on an approved form.

Exceptions: Trade permits are not transferable.

105.13

Surrender and Cancellation of Permits. If a permit holder desires to terminate a valid permit, the permit holder shall surrender the permit to the Department with a notarized affidavit stating the permit holder's irrevocable renouncement of all rights under the permit. Upon receipt of the surrendered permit and affidavit terminating the permit holder's rights under the permit, the Department shall declare the surrendered permit invalid and cancel the permit. The code official is authorized to conduct an inspection of the premises under Section 104.4 in connection with the surrender or cancellation.

105.14

Revocation of Permits. Procedures for revocation of permits are set forth in Section 111. Appeals of permit revocations shall be governed by Section 112.

D.C. Mun. Regs. r. 12-A105

Final Rulemaking published at 67 DCR 5679 (5/29/2020)