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    Process Clarity for Temporary Space Permitting

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    For years the Department of Buildings has inspected buildings which housed model offices and apartments. These models are generally installed by the developer to give a sense of the what the space could look like when fully built out.

    The industry has never had a clear understanding on how to file plans for model spaces. Since they are by definition temporary, is there any reason to sign them off?

    The DOB has finally entered the conversation, and levied judgement on the issue. A newly released memo from First Deputy Fatma Amer brings clarity to the process.

    The first distinction in the discussion is where the temporary space is located. If it’s on the ground floor of a building that has not yet received a TCO, the process is straightforward. This unit may apply for a temporary use permit if there is only one such unit in the building, if it has an exit which is compliant with BC Chapter 10, and if an Alteration Type 2 application is filed, indicating that the application is filed for a Temporary Use Permit for a sales office pursuant to section AC 28-111 and Buildings Bulletin 2010-002.

    If the model is not located on the ground floor of a building that has not received a TCO, the compliance is a bit more complicated. Everything from the prior scenario applies, with the additional requirements of having at least one operational passenger elevator serving the space. Further, the Alteration Type 2 application must show compliance with egress, sprinkler, standpipe, fire alarm and accessibility requirements.

    In both cases, the surrounding space remains a construction site, with public access completely prohibited.

    Once the application is filed and approved, the owner or owner’s representative needs to apply to the DOB for an inspection. Following this inspection, a permit for temporary use may be issued for 30 Days. Should all fees be paid up front, this period may be extended to 90 days.

    There are technicalities within this process, and a thorough reading of the Bulletin is a good step before starting the filing process.

    We are seeing more steps to the process, but once again, the clarity for the future will outweigh the extra work in the short term.

    Posted by Frank Fortino

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