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Department of Buildings

DOB is excited to introduce Pop-Up Permits (PUPs), our new pilot program for customers to get a streamlined Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) for temporary use of a previously vacant building for up to one (1) year - all without going through the traditional permitting process to maximize the time the space can operate. Learn more about Pop-Up Permits (PUPs).

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Programs and Initiatives

The Department of Buildings provides several programs and initiatives for the District of Columbia. Read on to learn about participation and benefits.

DOB Access DC Initiative

Access DC is a program used to enhance security and improve access to all of DOB's online services.

Signing up for an Access DC account is easy. Simply visit Access DC and click the sign-up link.

Get more information

Accelerated Plan Review

Accelerated Plan Review is DOB's initiative to streamline the plan review and permitting process. For a fee, plan reviews and permit approval for construction projects can be accelerated. In many cases, if all code requirements are met, plans can be approved in one day by DOB and participating sister agencies. While the speed of plan review is a major benefit, DOB remains focused on compliance. Therefore, all plans submitted through the Accelerated Plan Review program must be prescreened and reviewed to meet all District Construction Code requirements. This service accommodates various types of building projects, such as:

  • Demolition
  • New Construction
  • Tenant Improvements
  • Interior Alterations
  • Use Changes
  • Revisions
  • Shell, Footing, and Foundation

Get more information

Vacant-to-Visual Program

The Vacant-to-Visual Program improves the quality of life in neighborhoods across the District of Columbia by transforming vacant properties into artistic sites within the community, thereby reducing eyesores until properties can be returned to productive use.

 

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Green Building Program

The Green Building Program is responsible for regulating construction in the District that falls under the regulations of the Green Building Act, Green Construction Code, and Energy Conservation Code.

Resident Inspector Program

We have launched a pilot program for residents to become certified inspectors.  This program will allow participants to earn extra income while helping the agency keep pace with the demand for inspections.  Interested in participating? Learn more below.

Career Pathways Program

The DC Department of Buildings (DOB) has unveiled a Career Pathways program designed to provide architecture and engineering college seniors, graduates, and post-graduate level interns with valuable construction administration experience and potential full-time career prospects with DOB.

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Homeowner's Center

The Department of Buildings' (DOB) Homeowner's Center is devoted to helping homeowners get building permits for home improvement projects such as decks, fences, interior renovations and repairs, and window replacement.

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