District of Columbia Building Department 2026: Permits, Inspections & Services

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DC Building Permits and Inspections: Start With the Right Portal

Quick answer: Building permits, construction plan review, permit-based inspections, code enforcement and many property-compliance services in Washington, DC are handled by the District of Columbia Department of Buildings (DOB). One- and two-family residential applicants normally start with the DOB Permit Wizard. Commercial applicants generally use Citizen Access. Permit plans may then move through ProjectDox, while construction inspections can be scheduled through Tertius.

If you landed here because you need to remodel a house, build an addition, replace HVAC equipment, construct a deck, check an existing permit, schedule an inspection or understand why a permit application is still under review, you usually do not need to visit several websites first. The practical process is explained below in the order most applicants actually need it.

Residential permit Start with the official DOB Permit Wizard.
Commercial permit Use the official Citizen Access portal.
Check permit status Search the property or permit in DOB Scout.
Schedule inspection Use Tertius for permit-based construction inspections.
Find old permits or plans Search DOB eRecords.
Certificate of Occupancy Start through DOB Certifi.

District of Columbia Department of Buildings Contact Information

Official agency District of Columbia Department of Buildings (DOB)
Office 1100 4th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
General phone 202-671-3500
Email dob@dc.gov
TTY 711
Walk-in hours Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday: 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Thursday: 9:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Official website dob.dc.gov

DOB encourages online and virtual services because many permit, records and inspection tasks can be completed without visiting the office. If you do visit, DOB states that customers should have their documents available digitally because scanners are not provided at the Walk-In Center.

DC-area jurisdiction warning: A property in the Washington metropolitan area is not automatically under DC DOB. Arlington County and the City of Alexandria use separate permit systems. If the address is outside the District, see our Arlington County Building Department guide or Alexandria Building Department guide where applicable.

Do You Need a DC Building Permit?

DOB identifies many ordinary construction projects as permit work. The important point is to check both the building permit and any separate electrical, plumbing, mechanical, zoning, historic or public-space requirement before work begins.

Project Published DC guidance
New building or addition Building permit required.
Interior alteration or finished basement Generally requires a permit when the work falls within regulated construction.
Deck or porch New construction and alterations are listed as permit work.
Shed or playhouse Structures over 50 sq. ft. are listed as requiring a permit. A qualifying single garden shed of 50 sq. ft. or less and under 10 feet high may be exempt under DOB’s published conditions.
Retaining wall A qualifying wall not over 4 feet, for a one- or two-family dwelling with less than 50 sq. ft. of land disturbance, may be exempt. Larger or different projects require review.
Swimming pool A very small prefabricated above-ground pool may be exempt only when it meets DOB’s depth, capacity and circulation-system limits.
HVAC, electrical or plumbing work Trade permits can be required even when the main building work is limited.
Change of use or occupancy Requires review and may also require a Certificate of Occupancy.
Demolition or raze Separate DOB permit processes apply.
Work in public space May require a separate DDOT public-space permit.

Common work that may not need a building permit

Outside historic-district complications and subject to the exact DOB conditions, published exemptions include ordinary painting, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, limited plaster repair, window screens, storm windows, certain in-kind roofing or siding replacement, qualifying small sheds, qualifying small above-ground pools and certain small retaining walls.

Do not treat “building permit exempt” as “no rules apply.” Zoning, historic preservation, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, public-space or other agency requirements can still apply. A historic property can also have additional restrictions on work that might otherwise appear routine.

Use DOB’s current How to Get a Permit page before relying on an exemption for a specific project.

How to Apply for a DC Building Permit

  1. Check the property first.
    Open Scout, search the street address and review available property, permit and compliance information. Check whether zoning, historic, floodplain or other restrictions may affect the work.
  2. Write down the complete scope of work.
    Be specific about what will be built, removed, replaced or relocated. Include structural work and all electrical, plumbing, mechanical, fire-protection or exterior work. The scope written on the application should match the drawings.
  3. Choose the correct application system.
    For a one- or two-family residential project, begin with the DOB Permit Wizard. For commercial projects, use Citizen Access.
  4. Enter the project and professional information.
    Provide the property, owner and project details. Have applicable architect, engineer, contractor, home-improvement contractor and permit-expediter license numbers ready.
  5. Upload the required plans and supporting documents.
    More complex projects move into ProjectDox after DOB accepts the application. Follow the file-naming, plan-sheet and supporting-document rules described below.
  6. Respond to prescreen or plan-review comments.
    Open the assigned ProjectDox task, read each comment, revise the applicable drawing or document and submit the correction through the required task rather than simply uploading a file and leaving the task incomplete.
  7. Pay the final assessed fees and obtain the permit.
    Plan approval alone is not permission to start construction. Complete the DOB payment step and obtain the issued permit. Keep the approved plans and permit documents available for inspections.
Solar, demolition and raze applications: DOB’s current online guidance is not perfectly uniform across every page. The Permit Wizard page says residential applications can include solar, demolition and raze projects, while the general permit page also directs certain solar, demolition and raze applications to Citizen Access. For a residential project, start with the Permit Wizard and follow the project-specific routing it gives you. For commercial work, Citizen Access remains the normal starting point.

What happens inside the Permit Wizard?

The residential Permit Wizard asks questions about the project and uses the answers to identify likely permit types, anticipated reviews, required documents, expected inspections and estimated permit costs. You will need an Access DC sign-in.

Have electronic copies of plans, contracts, cost estimates and professional license information ready before starting. This saves time and reduces the chance of leaving the application incomplete.

Documents to Prepare Before You Submit

The exact list depends on the project, but DOB’s ProjectDox applicant guidance identifies several items that repeatedly cause prescreen problems.

  • Correct permit type
  • Project address on each plan sheet
  • Clear scope of work
  • Plan sheet number and description
  • Cover sheet when required
  • Applicable building-code index
  • Estimated cost of work
  • Required professional seals/signatures
  • Surveyor’s plat for applicable exterior work
  • Zoning analysis where applicable
  • Neighbor-notification documents where required
  • Energy Verification Worksheet where required
  • Contractor and professional license details
  • Supporting approvals from other agencies when applicable

ProjectDox plan-file details worth checking before upload

DOB’s applicant guide says plan sheets should be at least 11 × 17 inches and include a clear 3 × 3-inch area in the upper-right portion of the sheet. Drawings belong in the Drawings folder, while plats, forms and other supporting material belong in Supporting Documents. Files should have meaningful names that correspond to the sheet number and drawing description.

For exterior work, new buildings or new equipment outside an existing structure, a DC Surveyor’s Plat may be required. DOB’s applicant guidance says the plat should generally have been issued no more than two years earlier and must show existing and proposed improvements when applicable.

For deeper file-preparation instructions, use the official ProjectDox Applicant User Guide (PDF).

When neighbor notification becomes important

Neighbor notification is not required for every permit. It becomes especially important when construction can affect adjoining property—for example, certain excavation, underpinning, party-wall work, structural support, access needed for protective work, chimney impacts or specified raze work near a lot line.

Where the requirement applies, DOB’s process can include written notice to adjoining owners, proof of delivery, an 11 × 17 notice posted at the project property, photographs of the posting and a notarized affidavit. The posting requirement is generally maintained for at least 30 days for covered projects.

Review the official Neighbor Notification requirements before submitting a project involving an adjoining property.

ProjectDox, Prescreening and Permit Review

ProjectDox is DOB’s electronic plan-review system. It is not the same thing as the initial permit application portal, and the final issued permit is not normally downloaded from ProjectDox itself.

After DOB accepts a project that needs electronic plan review, the applicant receives an invitation to ProjectDox. The usual flow is:

  1. Accept the assigned applicant task.
  2. Upload drawings and supporting documents into the correct folders.
  3. Complete the Upload and Submit task.
  4. DOB performs prescreening.
  5. The project is routed to required disciplines and other agencies.
  6. If comments are issued, prepare corrections and a response to reviewer comments.
  7. Resubmit through the assigned task.
  8. After all reviews are approved, complete final payment and permit issuance.

Published review targets

Stage DOB published target/guidance
ProjectDox prescreening Applicant guide identifies a two-business-day target after the applicant completes the required task.
First standard plan-review cycle Applicant guide identifies a goal of up to 30 business days after successful prescreening.
Later review cycles / resubmittal Applicant guide identifies 15 business days for later review cycles.
Quality assurance after approvals Applicant guide identifies a two-business-day processing target.
Eligible small-scale Digital Walk-Through DOB describes a one-business-day review process for qualifying small projects.

These are review targets, not a guaranteed permit-delivery date. Historic Preservation, DDOT, DC Water, DOEE, DC Health, WMATA or another reviewing agency can add separate requirements and timelines.

District of Columbia Building Permit Fees

DC does not use one flat building-permit price. Fees depend on the permit type, project valuation, dimensions, number of fixtures or equipment items and other project details. The official schedule also shows a 10% enhanced fee on many permit categories.

Selected permit item Published schedule amount
Alteration/repair valued under $500 $33 base + 10% enhanced fee = $36.30
Alteration/repair valued $501–$1,000 $65 base + 10% enhanced fee = $71.50
New construction/additions $0.03 per cubic foot, plus applicable enhanced fee and other charges.
New garage or shed $65 base + 10% enhanced fee = $71.50
Fence on private property $33 base + 10% enhanced fee = $36.30
Swimming pool up to 15,000 gallons $260 base + 10% enhanced fee = $286
Permit renewal or change of permit ownership $33 base + 10% enhanced fee = $36.30

Do not calculate a project’s final cost from only one line in the table. Green-building charges, trade permits, plan reviews, special reviews or other fees may also apply.

Before submitting, compare your project with DOB’s official Building Permit Fee Schedule. The amount generated or invoiced by DOB for the actual application controls.

How long does a DC permit remain valid?

DOB states that a permit can become invalid when the authorized work has not received an approved inspection within 12 months after permit issuance, or when work is suspended or abandoned for one year after it began. Do not leave an issued permit inactive without checking its status.

How to Schedule a DC Construction Inspection

Required inspections depend on the permit and may include structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, fire-protection, elevator, boiler or zoning inspections.

  1. Make sure the permit is issued.
    Keep the permit number and property address available.
  2. Open Tertius.
    Go to the official DOB construction inspection portal.
  3. Choose DOB inspections.
    Search using the permit or property address and add the inspection type required for the stage of work.
  4. Select an available date.
    Tertius displays available DOB inspection dates. Its current portal states that DOB inspections can be scheduled within the next two weeks.
  5. Prepare the jobsite.
    Have the approved plans and permit documents available. Do not conceal work that requires a rough or intermediate inspection before approval.
  6. Check the result.
    Tertius can show inspection status and results. If the work does not pass, correct the cited issue before requesting the next required inspection.
DOB inspection cost: Tertius currently states that the cost of a regular DOB construction inspection is included in the permit fees. Third-party inspection services can involve separate charges.

If you cannot schedule the correct inspection or are unsure which inspection is required next, call DOB at 202-671-3500.

Construction hours and illegal construction

DOB identifies ordinary construction hours as Monday through Saturday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Work outside those hours or on legal holidays can require an After-Hours Permit.

If you need to report suspected illegal construction, unsafe conditions, vacant or blighted property, use the DOB Inspection Hub. DOB directs residents to contact 311 for imminent collapse danger and for certain after-hours concerns.

How to Check a DC Permit, Inspection or Property Record

Use Scout for current permit and compliance information

  1. Open Scout.
  2. Search the street address, permit number, business name, person or supported license information.
  3. Open the matching property or permit record.
  4. Review available permit, application, inspection, enforcement and Certificate of Occupancy information.
  5. If a permit is still in review, use the displayed application status together with your ProjectDox tasks and email notices to identify the next action.

Use eRecords when you need documents

DOB eRecords is intended for building permits, applications, invoices, plans and Certificate of Occupancy records. DOB launched an updated eRecords system in August 2026 with improved search and mobile/browser support.

  1. Open DOB eRecords.
  2. Search using the available property or record information.
  3. Open the matching record category.
  4. Review the available permit, application, plan or occupancy documents.
  5. If the record is not available online, follow DOB’s records-request process rather than assuming the permit never existed.

Certificate of Occupancy in Washington, DC

A Certificate of Occupancy, usually called a C of O, confirms that the approved use of a building, structure or land complies with applicable legal and safety requirements. It is separate from the construction permit itself.

DOB currently uses Certifi for C of O applications.

  1. Open Certifi.
  2. Search the property address.
  3. Validate the requested identity information.
  4. Select the appropriate application type.
  5. Complete the application and upload the requested documents.
  6. Select the required C of O inspection date where prompted.
  7. Respond to DOB review requests.
  8. Review the draft C of O when provided.
  9. Pay the assessed fee.
  10. Download the final approved Certificate of Occupancy.

DOB says a C of O is generally required for use of buildings, structures or land except for specified single-family residential situations, including certain residences in R-1A, R-1B, R-2 and R-3 zones. Because occupancy rules depend on the exact property and use, confirm the requirement through DOB’s Certificate of Occupancy guidance.

DC Building Codes and Other Agencies That May Review Your Project

DOB’s current construction-code page continues to identify the 2017 District of Columbia Construction Codes. They are based on the 2015 ICC family of model codes, the 2014 National Electrical Code and ASHRAE 90.1-2013, with District amendments in Title 12 of the DCMR.

The integrated code versions are useful references, but DOB specifically advises users to check Title 12 DCMR for the official text because later amendments may not appear in an integrated publication. Use the official DC Construction Codes page before finalizing permit drawings.

Other approvals that can affect a DC building permit

Agency / review Typical reason it becomes involved
DC Office of Zoning Zoning district, use, overlays, setbacks and other zoning questions.
Historic Preservation Work affecting designated historic properties or districts.
DDOT Sidewalks, alleys, streets, public space and related transportation impacts.
DC Water New or changed water and sewer connections.
DOEE Soil disturbance, environmental matters, floodplain issues and certain lead-related reviews.
DC Health Certain food establishments, health facilities and related projects.
WMATA Construction near Metro-owned property or facilities.
A submitted application is not an issued permit. Do not begin regulated construction merely because the application was submitted, the filing fee was paid or plans were uploaded. Wait until the applicable permit has actually been issued.

Before You Click Submit: Five Checks That Prevent Avoidable Delays

  1. Correct portal: Permit Wizard for the normal one- or two-family residential route; Citizen Access for commercial and other applicable categories.
  2. Scope matches plans: The application description and drawing set should describe the same work.
  3. Property restrictions checked: Review zoning, historic, floodplain and adjoining-property issues before plan review exposes them.
  4. Supporting files complete: Include the plat, neighbor documents, professional seals, energy documentation or other items required for your project.
  5. Watch your tasks: Uploading a corrected file does not always complete the workflow. Finish the assigned ProjectDox response/submission task so the project actually returns to review.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the District of Columbia Building Department called?

The official agency is the District of Columbia Department of Buildings, commonly abbreviated DOB. It handles construction permitting, plan review, building inspections, code enforcement and related building-regulation services.

2. Where do I apply for a DC residential building permit?

For a typical one- or two-family residential project, start with the official DOB Permit Wizard. Sign in with Access DC, describe the project, identify the applicable professionals and follow the permit questions presented by the wizard.

3. Where do commercial applicants apply for a DC building permit?

Commercial building applications generally begin in the Citizen Access portal. More complex projects can then be routed into ProjectDox for electronic plan submission and plan review.

4. Do I need a permit to remodel a house in Washington, DC?

Many remodels require permits, especially when work changes walls, structure, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, occupancy or other regulated components. Simple finish work can be exempt, but trade, zoning or historic requirements may still apply.

5. Can a homeowner pull electrical, plumbing or mechanical trade permits?

DOB guidance states that regulated trade permits are issued through licensed DC trade professionals for the applicable specialty. A homeowner acting as the general contractor does not automatically become eligible to pull professional trade permits.

6. How much is a DC building permit?

There is no single flat fee. Costs depend on the work. For example, the published schedule lists $36.30 total for certain alteration/repair work valued under $500 and $71.50 for a new garage or shed, while larger projects use valuation, size or other formulas. Always use the official fee assessment for the actual application.

7. How long does DC building permit review take?

It depends on the project. DOB’s applicant guidance identifies two business days as a ProjectDox prescreening target, up to 30 business days as the goal for a first standard plan-review cycle and 15 business days for later cycles. Eligible small Digital Walk-Through projects can have shorter published review targets.

8. How do I schedule a DC building inspection?

Open Tertius, choose the DOB inspection option, locate the issued permit by permit number or address, select the required inspection type and choose an available date. For assistance, call DOB at 202-671-3500.

9. How do I check whether a building permit was issued in Washington, DC?

Use DOB Scout to search by property address or permit number and review the permit status. For plans, permit documents, invoices and Certificate of Occupancy records, use DOB eRecords.

10. Where is the DC Department of Buildings office and when is it open?

DOB is at 1100 4th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024. Published Walk-In Center hours are 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, and 9:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Thursday. Confirm holiday or temporary service changes before traveling.

Official DC Building Resources

Information reviewed: November 1, 2026.

USBuilding.org is an independent informational resource and is not the District of Columbia government. Permit procedures, portal routing, fees, review targets and office operations can change. Use the official DOB application or record for the final property-specific determination.

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