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DBI outlines fast-track over-the-counter permitting; commissioners and public press for more data
Summary
Deputy Director Sweeney described DBI’s Fifth Floor over-the-counter permitting process, staffing and one-hour-per-discipline plan-check target; commissioners and public commenters urged electronic sign-ins, transaction data and Acela integration to detect favoritism and improve transparency.
Deputy Director Sweeney on Sept. 23 briefed the Building Inspection Commission on the Department of Building Inspection’s over-the-counter (OTC) permitting operations on the Fifth Floor, saying most OTC permits can be reviewed and issued the same day. The presentation outlined staffing (45 plan checkers plus engineers and clerks), a three-point intake system and a one-hour-per-discipline target for plan checks.
The presentation included DBI’s record-keeping procedures: paper sign-in sheets at intake and on the Fifth Floor, a recheck log retained for one year, and sign-in retention on the Second Floor for up to three years. Sweeney also described applicants’ appeal rights and the recheck process when a plan checker issues comments rather than an approval.
Commissioners said the department’s volume of work is a strength but pressed for clearer metrics. Commissioner Marr, who requested the report, asked whether the August numbers covered all OTC permits; Sweeney replied they do. Multiple commissioners and members of the public said the current paper-based sign-ins and ad hoc appointment practices make it difficult to measure elapsed service time or spot preferential treatment.
Public commenters urged automation and an intake ombudsman. Architect Joe Butler recommended an online pre‑check to validate occupancy, contractor licenses and insurance before an applicant arrives, and argued that tying planning and DBI systems would reduce improper or incomplete permit applications. Gerry Drattler said electronic sign-ins would enable measurement of elapsed time between sign-in and service.
DBI staff said they are adding clerks dedicated to homeowners, opening earlier hours to help small contractors and homeowners, and will reconsider the QMatic queueing system once DBI moves into a single-floor facility. Director Tom Hui and Deputy Sweeney noted disciplinary action is possible if staff are found to be bypassing intake rules. Commissioners asked DBI to provide further data on permit flows, sign-in capture and appeals at future meetings.
The commission did not take a formal vote on policy changes; commissioners requested follow-up information and asked that Acela integration and more detailed metrics be included in future reports.
