CPHD
When is a Permit Required?
WELCOME TO INSPECTION SERVICES DIVISION
On this page:
- Building Permit
- Electrical Permit
- Plumbing and Gas Permits
- Mechanical Permit
- Elevator Permit
- Fire Protection System Permit
- Other Permits
The Inspection Services Division will answer specific questions about any permit requirements at 703-228-3800.
Building PermitAll structural work requires a permit from the Inspection Services Division except construction of a storage shed (of less than 150 square feet), tents of less than 900 square feet , construction of a patio flat on the ground, residential cabinets, backyard recreational play equipment or the installation of gutters. A temporary building permit may be issued at the discretion of the building official.
Electrical PermitAll electrical work requires a permit from the Inspection Services Division, except minor repair work which includes only the following: replacing of switches, sockets, and receptacles; repairing of non-commercial lighting fixtures and neon signs, if the sign is not to be altered or removed from the building repairing of portable electrical equipment and appliances; repairing of heating equipment, air-conditioning units; and refrigeration equipment, unless motors are to be replaced. low voltage wiring, except where it penetrates a fire rated assembly or runs in a non-combustible plenum.
Plumbing and Gas PermitsAll new plumbing and gas work requires a permit from the Inspection Services Division, except minor repair which includes only the following: repairs involving only the working parts of a valve or faucet; the clearance of stoppages; repair of leaks or replacement of defective valves or faucets, provided that no changes are made in the piping to the fixture or appliance.
Mechanical PermitA permit from the Inspection Services Division is required for the installation, repair, or alteration of boilers; furnaces; air-conditioning systems; ventilation, exhaust or refrigeration systems; and their related components. A survey plat showing the location of all outdoor new and replacement heat pumps or A/C units will be required. The model energy code requires energy calculations for new buildings and additions.
Elevator PermitFor new installations and alterations of elevators, cranes, or escalators, and of material or personnel hoists, a permit is required from the Inspection Services Division. Shop drawings are required for all new installations and some modernizations, showing equipment layout, shafts, pits and elevator machine rooms.
Fire Protection System PermitAll installation of and changes to fire protection systems such as sprinklers, standpipes, fire alarm, fire mains, kitchen hoods and other suppression systems and components require a permit. Since these permits require shop drawings. Submissions should be made by the owner, designer, and contractor and should be timed to meet deadlines and to schedule the necessary time for review and approval to order and install equipment and to arrange testing and final approval by the Inspection Services Division. At any time, specific questions are encouraged and can be addressed by the Fire Protection Engineer, Plan Review Section Supervisor or the Building Official at 703-228-3800.
Other PermitsIf above Permits is not what you are looking for check Other Required Permits Page
Get a copy of Permit Applications In Adobe Format in our Download Page.
