Topic

Building and Renovating

Before beginning the construction, alteration, repair, or changing the occupancy of a building, a substantial land structure, or structure regulated by state division of fire and life safety (or their designated Jurisdiction Having Authority [JHA]), plans and specifications regarding that building's or structure's location on the property, area, height, number of stories, occupancy, type of construction, fire-resistive construction, interior finish, exit facilities, electrical systems, mechanical systems, flammable or combustible liquid and gas storage tanks and their appurtenances, automatic fire-extinguishing systems, and fire alarm systems must be submitted by the owner or the owner's representative for examination and approval. This review does not address structural considerations or mechanical or electrical review beyond that necessary to confirm compliance with fire or life safety requirements. A copy of the approval must be posted as required in 13 AAC 55.100.

It is prohibited to occupy a building for which plans have not been examined and approved if the construction, alteration, repair, or change in occupancy began on or after December 5, 1956. The JHA may post a building constructed without a plan review, as set out in 13 AAC 50.070(b). 

Note: Residential housing that is triplex or smaller are exempt from this requirement.