Committee approves building-code changes to streamline site permits and interdepartmental review

The committee reviewed an ordinance that outlines the site-permit application process and clarifies the scope of building-official review for site permits requiring simultaneous interdepartmental review of electronically submitted applications. Supervisor Safai and industry representatives said codifying checklist-style requirements into the code should make the process more predictable for architects, engineers and builders.

Public commenters urged explicit inclusion of planning-code demolition calculations at the time of submittal so reviewers can immediately determine whether a project is a demolition versus a major alteration. A public commenter recommended that those calculations be required at submittal because planning staff frequently requests them later, which slows review.

After hearing public comment, the committee approved the ordinance and sent it to the full Board with a positive committee recommendation.

Next steps: The full board will consider the ordinance at a future meeting.