DCRA Launches First Phase of New Permit Center - Releases

(Washington, DC) On Monday, April 9, 2007, the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) will launch the first phase in the roll-out of its new Permit Center.

For the next few months many of DCRA's permitting functions will be relocated to the seventh floor, while renovations occur in the old Permit Center on the second floor.

Visitors to the agency–located at 941 North Capitol Street, NE–will see changes from the moment they walk in the door. Visitors will notice signs and an information table, staffed with knowledgeable DCRA employees to help orient customers to new locations and innovative, streamlined processes.

DCRA isn't just moving some functions to the seventh floor. As part of DCRA's Making all the right moves–Right from the start, new processes are being introduced on April 9.

In addition to information about building or construction applications, DCRA customers have access to the following help on the web:

An online construction permit application: right from the start, customers can find out about any extra steps that may be needed because of a building or neighborhood location (for example, customers will find out immediately if a building or neighborhood is located in a historic district.)
An online, printable ready reference to residential zoning standards: right from the start, customers can check on building and lot zoning requirements.
An online, fillable zoning data summary* form: right from the start, customers can make sure that DCRA's Zoning Administrator needs are met for new construction, additions or changes in use or occupant load.
An online, printable guide to required permit reviews*: right from the start, customers will know which engineers need to review applications–for every kind of work from fences to office buildings.
An online, printable guide to permit review requirements by application type*: right from the start, customers will know what plans and documents are required.
An online, printable target* and actual review times*: right from the start, customers will be able to gauge what to expect, throughout the review process.