Ch. 11 - Code Officials and the Code Process

Delia Tacheny
Reading: The Codes Guidebook for Interiors
INT 324 - Building Codes

Keywords:

• authority having jurisdiction (AHJ)
• code department
• code official

As we conclude this book, learning about all the aspects of building codes, it's important that we wrap up by discussing the process in applying all of these codes to a project. It's important to understand that the building codes and the code process will vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, and each project will require research regarding the applicable codes. It's important that as designers, we know how to work with the local code officials. 

The authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) indicates the entity that has the authority to decide whether the design and construction are compliant with the required codes and to enforce code compliance. The term can apply to a legally defined area (such as a city or county), a specific code department, or an individual code official who has the right to review and approve construction. "Collectively, these entities decide which codes are being enforced, manage the review and approval of the design and construction, and monitor construction within their area to ensure that buildings are safe." The relationships between state and local code varies by location. Sometimes the state/city/county's established code will apply to all jurisdictions within that area, but other times local jurisdictions will enforce their own local codes. Each jurisdiction will establish which version of the code to adopt (which many not always be the most updated) and they will also establish any addendums (changes) they want to make for their location. 

The local government enforcing the codes within each jurisdiction is typically referred to as the code department or building department and may consist of one person or many depending on the size of the town, city, etc. A code official is someone who has the authority to administer, interpret and enforce the applicable codes. Different types of roles within this job description include plans examiner, building inspector, special inspector, and fire marshal. These code officials must go through certification processes and some are specialized in certain areas of understanding (mechanical, structural, etc.). 

Depending on the project and necessary requirements, certain organizations to be aware of with rules and regulations include Agency Review, Sustainability Programs, and Federal Laws and Regulations.

The general layout of the Code Process is as following:

1. Code Research and Design
2. 
   Preliminary Review
3. Appeals (if necessary)
4. Construction Documents
5. Plan Review and Permit
6. Inspections During Construction
7. Final Inspection, Approval, and Certification

It's always important to be in communication with the local code officials to ensure no setbacks in a project. Inevitably, sometimes the process may look more like "1 step forward 2 steps back." It's especially important to go through the proper code process when your design may call for an unusual solution, in which sustainability standards are trying to be met or a performance code is more applicable than a prescriptive code -- these solutions MUST be approved and documented. 

While this blog lays out the general guidelines and processes, each step may look a little different each time. Always be well-researched and in communication with the local jurisdiction.