CPP Construction & Building Permits

Question 1

Which model building code is most widely adopted by U.S. states and local governments for commercial construction?

Accepted Answer

International Building Code (IBC) published by the International Code Council (ICC)

Answer

Uniform Building Code (UBC)

Answer

National Building Code (NBC)

Answer

Standard Building Code (SBC)

Question 2

What is a 'Certificate of Occupancy' (CO) and when is it issued?

Accepted Answer

A document issued by the local building department certifying that a building is safe for occupancy and complies with applicable codes and permit conditions

Answer

A permit authorizing construction to begin

Answer

A document transferring property ownership

Answer

A state-issued license for commercial building operators

Question 3

What is a 'demolition permit' and what key information must typically be provided in the application?

Accepted Answer

A permit required before tearing down a structure; applications must typically identify asbestos/lead hazards, utility disconnections, debris disposal methods, and shoring plans for adjacent structures

Answer

A permit authorizing changes to interior finishes only

Answer

A federal permit required for demolishing buildings over 50 years old

Answer

A permit required only when demolishing structures on the National Register of Historic Places

Question 4

Which federal regulation requires notification to EPA before demolition or renovation of buildings containing asbestos?

Accepted Answer

NESHAP Asbestos Regulations (40 CFR Part 61, Subpart M)

Answer

OSHA Asbestos Standard (29 CFR 1926.1101)

Answer

RCRA Solid Waste Regulations

Answer

Clean Air Act Title V Operating Permit

Question 5

What is a 'grading permit' and what is its primary purpose?

Accepted Answer

A permit required before grading, excavating, or filling land to ensure erosion control, drainage, and slope stability measures are in place

Answer

A permit for paving roads and parking lots

Answer

A permit for installing storm drains

Answer

A permit for removing vegetation before construction

Question 6

What is the 'permit expiration' risk in building permits and how is it typically managed?

Accepted Answer

Most building permits expire if substantial work is not commenced within a specified period (commonly 180 days) or if work is suspended; extensions can be requested before expiration

Answer

Permits automatically renew annually without action from the permit holder

Answer

Permits never expire once issued under federal law

Answer

Permits expire only when the project is completed