June 2024 Edition
Dear Customers,
Earlier this month, we celebrated World Environment Day. DOB continues to be focused on helping DC to achieve Mayor Bowser's important climate goals; as the regulator of the city's built environment, we will continue to advocate for energy-efficient building practices to reduce carbon emissions, curb utility usage, and improve general quality of life.
In this month's newsletter, I am excited to announce a new webpage on dob.dc.gov that speaks to Notices of Infraction (NOIs). NOIs are an important aspect of our enforcement tools that we use to help keep the District's buildings safe and habitable for all. It is important for the community to understand how our enforcement tools are used, which is why we have built out the new webpage. Check it out!
Also, as we are in the midst of summer, I felt it important for us to remind you all about District regulations regarding green space. Read on to learn more about grass height limits, different garden types, and more!
Lastly, in this month's installment of Building for Tomorrow Today, we discuss some exciting advancements that have been taking place in the world of windows. My hope is that as DOB continues to share these energy-efficient advancements with you, more and more of you might consider ways you can reduce your personal carbon footprint. It takes all of us to make carbon neutrality a reality.
As always, I am thankful for your continued support for our work and relentless accountability that we meet our mission. It is rewarding to know that we are working every day for the District's residents, businesses, and visitors who care so much about this city.
Onward,
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 Brian J. Hanlon, AIA LEED AP®
Director
 A Notice of Infraction (NOI) is a formal notification issued by DOB to inform an individual or entity that they have violated specific laws, regulations, or codes. This notice details the nature of the infraction, the specific regulations that have been breached, and outlines the required corrective actions and any associated penalties or fines.
The purpose of an NOI is to enforce compliance with legal standards to ensure safety, health, and order within the District.
Check out our new webpage on NOIs, where you can learn more about:
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NOI definition and types
- Abatement of NOIs and the associated proof required
 Pollinator and Rain Gardens
Intelligently using the green space in the District is a high priority for District government and many property owners. Previously, we shared information in our newsletter about pollinator and rain gardens. We also provided valuable information from the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) on how property owners can use green space in these manners.
Grass Enforcement Season
District regulations (12-G DCMR, Section 302 Exterior Property Areas) prohibit property owners – both commercial and residential – from allowing grass and weeds on their premises to grow more than eight inches in height. Failing to adhere to the law could lead to fines. All exterior property and premises should be maintained in a clean, safe, and sanitary condition.
DOB regulates several types of excessive vegetative growth, including weeds, grasses, kudzu, poison ivy, oak, sumac, plants with heavy odors, and any other causing hay fever. Regulations require that these weeds be cut after no more than seven days of growth.
Annually, May 1 through October 31 is grass enforcement season. DOB can clean a property (i.e., mow a property's lawn and remove vegetation) and issue fines to the property owner. The fine (cost of the abatement) is determined by the number of employees and equipment used, and total time spent at the property.
From November 1 through April 30, once a property is inspected and posted for excessive vegetation (growth in excess of eight inches), DOB allows the owner seven business days to respond and comply before mowing the property’s lawn. If there is no response, a re-inspection is conducted. If the violation still exists, DOB will make arrangements to abate. Abatement can take up to four weeks after the initial inspection.
How To Report Overgrowth
Residents should report properties with grass and/or weeds exceeding
eight inches directly through directly to DOB through the District’s 311
system. You can report your service requests by either calling 311,
visiting the 311.dc.gov, using the mobile app (DC311), using our online
live chat feature during standard business hours, texting DC311, or
tweeting to @311dcgov. Please have the exact address of the property
before making a complaint.
Why Is Grass Height So Important?
Excessive vegetative growth can have serious public health
implications. Tall grass can trigger respiratory problems like asthma
and allergies in District residents and visitors. Weeds can also create a breeding place for mosquitoes, rats, mice, snakes and other vermin which are drawn to grass and weed overgrowth. Vegetation may be defined as any grasses, weeds, or plants at any state of maturity that:
- Exceeds more than eight inches in height, is untended, or creates a
dense area of shrubbery that is a detriment to the health, safety
and welfare of the public;
- Creates a harbor (including hiding places for persons) or provides a
place to conceal refuge or trash, regardless of height;
- Develops into deposits, or accumulation of, refuge or trash;
Harbors rodents and vermin or provides a refuge for snakes, rats or
other rodents;
- Creates an unpleasant or noxious odor;
- Constitutes a fire hazard; or
- Contains grass or weeds that are dead.
By working together, we can ensure that the District stays green while cutting down on excessive grass and vegetation growth.
 Windows: Looking Out To a Cleaner Future
 Upgrading your home's windows is a smart way to boost energy efficiency, reduce utility bills, and enhance interior comfort. Here are some technologies that can make a significant difference:
1. Low-E Glass Windows
Low-emissivity (also known as Low-E) glass windows are coated with a microscopic metallic layer that reflects infrared heat while allowing natural light to pass through. This basically means that the UV light is deflected away from your home, just bringing the visible light inside. This technology helps keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter by minimizing heat transfer.
2. Window Films
Window films are a cost-effective way to enhance the energy efficiency of existing windows. These thin, transparent layers can reduce solar heat gain, block harmful UV rays, and increase privacy without obstructing the view. They're easy to install and can be tailored to specific needs.
3. Insulated Window Frames
The material of your window frames also impacts energy efficiency. Opt for frames made from insulated materials like vinyl, fiberglass, or wood-composite. These materials provide better thermal insulation compared to traditional aluminum frames, further reducing heat loss and improving overall energy performance.
4. Double- and Triple-Glazed Windows
Double-glazed windows consist of two panes of glass separated by a gas-filled space, while triple-glazed windows have three panes. The gas acts as an insulator, reducing heat loss and noise. These windows significantly improve thermal performance to retain heat, and are especially beneficial in more extreme climates.
5. Smart Windows
Smart windows use electrochromic or photochromic technologies to automatically adjust their tint based on sunlight intensity. These windows can reduce glare and heat gain during the day and insulate better at night, optimizing energy use throughout the day.
By incorporating some of these window technologies in your space, you can significantly enhance your home's energy efficiency, leading to lower energy bills and a more comfortable living environment year-round. To learn more about different window technologies, please visit the U.S. Department of Energy's website.
- Contact DOB via email at dob@dc.gov, through our online inquiry form or during normal business hours using the live chat available on dob.dc.gov or by phone at 202.671.3500, and we will get back to you in three business days or less.
- DOB's updated Customer Service hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:30 am-4:30 pm and Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm.
- If you want to report illegal construction, vacant property concerns, or property maintenance issues after hours, you can always report them via DC311. You can call 311 at any time day or night. You also can visit the online portal at 311.dc.gov.
- If you live in a residential zone and plan on doing work on your home, please reach out to DOB to ensure your proposed work is properly permitted under District law. This especially goes for those larger projects that you are considering. DOB wants to ensure that all involved parties are on the same page regarding District regulations to ensure safety for all.
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