The Department of Buildings (DOB) protects the safety of residents, businesses, and visitors and advances development of the built environment through permitting, inspections, and code enforcement.

Summary of Services

The Department of Buildings is responsible for regulating construction activity in the District of Columbia. The agency operates a consolidated permit operations division, and it reviews all construction documents to ensure compliance with building codes and zoning regulations. It also has inspection and oversight authority, through which construction activity, building systems, and rental housing establishments are inspected. Violations are cited, and if necessary, post citation abatement is pursued within the limits of the law.