What Needs a Permit?

DCRA is presenting a five-session summer series on permitting for homeowners.

DCRA is presenting a five-session summer series on permitting for homeowners.

Information provided by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs

DCRA's five-session Homeowner's Center Summer Series can be accessed in person or online. To register, visit dcra.dc.gov/homeowners-center-permitting-education-series. Check this site later for re-caps of the presentations and training videos.

The final two programs are on September 12 and 26.

Wednesday, September 12, 2018 – Permitting Online Tools
This workshop is about the technological enhancements and new online services/applications that DCRA has launched to better assist residents, District businesses, and visitors.

Wednesday, September 26, 2018 – Buyer Beware: What DCRA Wants You to Know Before & After You Buy a Home
This training is for people interested in buying, remodeling, and protecting their home. It covers many topics, including permit application, plan review, illegal construction, DC Construction Code requirements, and more!

Links to the presentations and videos of the first three sessions are below.

Wednesday, August 22: Small Projects & Home Renovations Workshop
The workshop reviewed what the DC Construction Codes require when conducting small projects and renovations inside and outside your home. View presentation and training video.

Wednesday, August 8: What Needs A Permit
The workshop provided attendees with insight on what home improvement projects require a permit, how permits protect the homeowner and property, and how permits help homeowners avoid fines and stop work orders for illegal construction. Attendees learned how permits can be an ally, not an obstacle, by keeping contractors honest and also maintaining good standing with homeowner insurance policies. View presentation and training video.

Wednesday, July 19: How to Submit a Complete Set of Plans
The workshop covered how to spot substandard drawings with an emphasis on the importance and necessity of hiring a qualified designer. Attendees also reviewed a complete set of plans side-by-side with a substandard set of plans. View presentation and training video.

For the latest news and updates, visit DCRA's Communications Portal