 Handouts
Use of Handouts in Leiu of Plan Review
In 1995, The National Conference of States on Building Codes and Standards (NCSBCS) began a program entitled "Streamlining the Nation's Building Regulatory Process". The purpose of the program was to aide government agencies in finding ways to eliminate areas of existing regulatory overlap and duplication. The main goals were to reduce the current cost of regulating construction as well as expediting the process without compromising safety or quality of life.
As part of this streamlining effort government agencies throughout the United States, including several in Utah, were asked to participate and share their accomplishments. Several jurisdictions chose to develop handouts to assist customers, specifically homeowners, in complying with the building code provisions for typical homeowner construction projects. The handouts contained plan details and related tables for typical homeowner construction projects such as decks, sheds, detached garages, retaining walls and carport enclosures. If the customer's project fell under the parameters provided in the handouts a plan review was not necessary.
After implementing these new handouts, one jurisdiction in particular estimated an annual cost savings of nearly $1.5 million when used in conjunction with other streamlining initiatives. The three main benefits that were listed when using the handouts are itemized below.
- Each time one is used one less plan review is performed by staff.
- It shortens the amount of time customers spend obtaining a permit.
- Inspectors are familiar with the handout information, making inspections quicker and easier.
Kimball Engineering has had extensive experience developing similar handouts for jurisdictions (see examples). Handouts can be created to meet the specific needs of the jurisdiction and made to be compliant with adopted building codes. Please feel free to contact us at any time should you have any questions in regards to this service.
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