NEW: On Friday, August 16, 2026, DOB launched a major update to the eRecords Management System with the following enhancements: (1) simpler, more intuitive search; (2) improved login experience; (3) better navigation; and (4) seamless operation in any modern browser, on any device.

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What Is a Public Record?

Generally, public records include all of the following materials created or received by a state or municipality pursuant to the law or in transacting public business:

• Documents, papers, letters
• Books
• Maps
• Photographs
• Sound or video recordings
• Microfilm and magnetic tape
• Electronic media
•  Other information recording media

The public records designation is regardless of a record’s physical form or characteristic or whether its public access is open or restricted under the law.

Types of Records

You can access the following types of records within the District dating back to 1877:

• Building Permits
• Electrical Permits
• Plumbing Permits
• Mechanical Permits (AC)
• Building Plans
• Certificates of Occupancy

DOB Hold Records for Years 1958 -1995

Requests for records dating between 1958-1995 can be requested from DOB directly. Please note the following:

• These records are housed offsite.
• It normally takes 30 days or less to retrieve the requested record.

For building plans for years 1995-1998, DOB may not have them.

DOB Fees for Records

• Request for Certificate of Occupancy
  • Regular Copy: $7.00
  • Certified Copy: $20.00

Depending on the size of other record(s) fees may vary.

All remittance is payable to: District of Columbia, Government Treasurer

Getting Requested Records

• In-person retrieval: Most records can be emailed, but when they cannot they must be picked up. Our pickup address is:

DOB Walk-In Center
1100 4th Street SW, Suite E270
 Washington, DC 20024

Hours are Monday – Wednesday, and Friday: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm, Thursday: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm.

• Pick-up deadline: Records requests must resubmitted if not accessed or picked up within two weeks.

Archived Records

The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is the nation's record keeper. Of all documents and materials created through business conducted by the U.S. government, only 1%-3% are so important for legal or historical reasons that they are kept by the federal government forever. Those valuable records are preserved and are available to the public, whether they want to explore clues about their family’s history, need to prove a veteran’s military service, or are researching a historical topic of interest. Learn more here.

Resources

• eRecords User Guide
• eRecords Upgrade Training, August 12, 2026
• eRecords Upgrade Frequently Asked Questions