CPP Construction & Building Permits 2

Question 1

What does 'substantial conformance' mean in the context of construction permit administration?

Accepted Answer

A determination that minor field changes to approved plans do not materially deviate from permitted design and do not require a revised permit

Answer

Most jurisdictions allow minor field adjustments that are in substantial conformance with approved plans without requiring a permit revision; significant changes require a revised permit.

Question 2

What is a 'stop work order' and under what authority can a building official issue one?

Accepted Answer

An order halting construction due to a violation of permit conditions, approved plans, or applicable codes; issued by the local building official under authority granted by state statute and local ordinance

Answer

Building officials have statutory authority to issue stop work orders when construction violates permit conditions or applicable codes; violating a stop work order typically results in permit revocation and fines.

Question 3

What is the difference between a 'building permit' and a 'building license' in U.S. construction law?

Accepted Answer

A building permit authorizes a specific construction project; a building license (contractor's license) authorizes a person or business to perform construction work generally

Answer

Permits are project-specific authorizations for a particular construction activity; licenses are professional credentials authorizing a contractor to perform construction work across multiple projects.

Question 4

Under the ADA Standards for Accessible Design, what 'path of travel' obligation is triggered when an existing facility undergoes an alteration?

Accepted Answer

The path of travel (accessible route to the altered area including restrooms, drinking fountains, and telephones) must be made accessible to the extent it is not disproportionate to the overall cost of the alteration (20% threshold)

Answer

ADA requires that when alterations are made, the path of travel to the altered area be made accessible; if the cost exceeds 20% of the primary alteration, only the primary alteration need comply.

Question 5

What is a 'phased permit' approach in large-scale construction projects?

Accepted Answer

Issuing separate permits for distinct phases (foundation, shell, interior) to allow construction to begin before full design is complete

Answer

Phased or 'fast-track' permitting allows construction of early phases to begin while later phases are still being designed, expediting large projects at the risk of design changes requiring re-review.

CPP - Certified Permitting Professional Practice Test

CPP - Certified Permitting Professional Practice Test

CPP Construction & Building Permits 2