CPP Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CPP facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When implementing financial planning & analysis, what comes first? → Assessment of current state
2. Which standard test method is commonly used to evaluate the fire-resistance rating of building construction assemblies? → ASTM E119 – Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
3. What is the International Residential Code (IRC) primarily designed for? → One- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories
4. Which model building code is most widely adopted by U.S. states and local governments for commercial construction? → International Building Code (IBC) published by the International Code Council (ICC)
5. Which comprehensive planning document typically serves as the legal basis for a municipality's zoning ordinance? → General Plan (Comprehensive Plan or Master Plan)
6. Why are zoning permits necessary in construction? → They help ensure that the project complies with land-use regulations
7. What is the purpose of a 'geotechnical report' in the building permit process? → To characterize soil conditions and provide foundation design recommendations
8. Which factor is MOST important in financial planning & analysis? → Accuracy and thoroughness
9. In the context of building code enforcement, what is a 'variance'? → An official exception granting relief from a specific code or zoning requirement
10. What does the 'International Energy Conservation Code' (IECC) regulate in new construction? → Minimum energy efficiency standards for building envelopes and mechanical systems
11. What does a 'red tag' posted by an inspector on a construction site signify? → A stop work order has been issued due to a code violation or unsafe condition
12. What is a 'Conditional Use Permit' (CUP) in local zoning law? → A permit allowing a use not ordinarily permitted in a zone, subject to specific conditions
13. What is the primary purpose of a building inspection during the permit process? → To verify that construction complies with approved plans and applicable codes
14. What is the PRIMARY purpose of financial planning & analysis in permitting? → Ensuring compliance with standards
15. Which federal law requires federal agencies to involve the public in environmental review processes for major projects? → National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
16. What permit is required under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act for placing fill material in wetlands or waters of the U.S.? → Section 404 Dredge and Fill Permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
17. Who is typically responsible for conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment? → Environmental consultants or specialists
18. What key information must be included in a permit application? → Detailed plans, scope, and environmental impact analysis
19. What is resource leveling in project management? → Adjusting the schedule to avoid resource over-allocation
20. What is the primary purpose of a 'Notice of Intent' (NOI) in federal permitting? → To formally announce that an agency intends to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement
21. What is a variance in the context of permitting? → It is an exception granted when the project cannot meet zoning requirements
22. Under the ADA Standards for Accessible Design, what is the minimum clear width required for an accessible route in most commercial facilities? → 36 inches
23. Which of the following best describes 'code enforcement' as a permitting function? → The inspection, notice, and legal action process ensuring compliance with adopted codes
24. Which federal statute requires consultation with state and federal resource agencies, tribes, and the public for activities in navigable waters? → Clean Water Act Section 404 and Rivers and Harbors Act Section 10
25. Under the Administrative Procedure Act (APA), what is the standard minimum public comment period for a proposed federal rule or permit? → 30 days
26. Which federal regulation requires notification to EPA before demolition or renovation of buildings containing asbestos? → NESHAP Asbestos Regulations (40 CFR Part 61, Subpart M)
27. What document is typically required for environmental approval? → Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
28. Why are permitting fees charged? → To cover the administrative and inspection costs
29. What is the role of a Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) in US permitting? → To consult on impacts to tribal cultural and historic properties under Section 106
30. What is a 'right-of-way' (ROW) permit in construction? → A permit required to perform work within a public street, sidewalk, or utility easement