Services
A structure that retains earth (soil). Common retaining wall material includes concrete, rocks or timber.
A temporary structure that servers as platform to do work on existing and/or new building. If the scaffold will occupy public space such as a side walk or public alley, a permit from District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is required.
The single-click option for scheduling an online appointment with DOB.
Construction or renovation of a shed, to include garden and storage sheds.
This permit is required for temporary support of excavations, generally for the purpose of constructing underground structures and basements.
Shop drawing applications must be accompanied with an issued building permit and submission requirements may vary depending on the scope of work. Shop drawings are submitted under the below permit applications.
A permit is needed to erect and replace an exterior sign. This includes the advertisement of business.
Coming Soon: In mid-November 2025, DOB will be rebranding the Postcard Permit Program to “Instant Permits,” to both reflect the program's speed and convenience and launch new enhancements like the inclusion of most solar panel installations. This page will be updated once the changes take effect.
The testing and surveying of soil to determine capability. Review of this permit requires the approval District Department and Energy and the Environment (DOEE).
A panel designed to absorb the sun’s rays as a source of energy for generating electricity. A separate electrical will be needed for installation.
A limited number of “Special Signs” can exist under District law (as defined in the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations). However, the District has a permanent moratorium on new permit issuances to erect or construct a Special Sign.
A swimming pool permit is needed for the construction of and modification to a swimming pool. Separate permits may needed for the installation of water systems.
A Technical Advisory Group (TAG) is a subcommittee of the Construction Codes Coordinating Board (CCCB) that assists the CCCB in evaluating changes, additions or deletions to the ICC Codes and the National Electrical Code adopted by the District of Columbia.
The work necessary to finish the interior layout of space previously permitted under the construction codes (base building permit). Includes first occupancy of space.
To erect a tower crane. Other permits may be needed such as a DDOT permit for locations that involve public space.
Used for the collection of underground water storage. Separate reviews are required from the District Department and Energy and the Environment (DOEE).
SurDocs, or Surveyor Document System, is the District's online land records management system. The Office of the Surveyor maintains the legal records of all land plats and subdivisions of private and...