April 2025 Edition
Dear Customers,
As we move through spring, Team DOB is excited to share how we continue building a safer, greener, more connected District.
We’ve been preparing for Building Safety Month in May, where we’ll spotlight the behind-the-scenes work that keeps DC strong, from code enforcement to new tools that make permitting easier and more efficient. I’m excited for you all to meet a few of our hard-working inspectors through a miniseries coming soon to our social media pages, so stay tuned for those details.
We’re also proud to highlight our growing partnerships with community organizations, as seen through recent events with the DC Chamber of Commerce and the Anacostia Business Improvement District (BID). Together, we’re working to support smart growth, sustainability, and vibrant neighborhoods across the city.
In this edition, you’ll also find exciting updates a new op-ed miniseries from our Strategic Enforcement Administrator Keith Parsons. Plus, we’re spotlighting the future of green living with a feature on all-electric homes.
It’s an honor to serve this incredible city. Thank you for your continued trust and engagement as we build a stronger DC—one project and one community at a time.
Onward,
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 Brian J. Hanlon, AIA LEED AP®
Director
May is almost here… and so is Building Safety Month! From strong codes and strategic enforcement to new tools that speed up permits and protect tenants; DOB is committed to making DC safer, greener, and stronger.
Throughout the month of May, we’re highlighting our inspection teams, new resources for residents, and behind-the-scenes efforts that help build a safer city for all. Don’t miss a moment; be sure to follow us on social media for all the action!
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DOB Hosts First-Ever Landlord Roundtable
On April 8, DOB Director Brian Hanlon and Strategic Enforcement Administrator Keith Parsons attended a meet-and-greet with the Real Estate and Construction Division of the DC Chamber of Commerce. Director Hanlon shared remarks highlighting DOB’s commitment to partnering with community stakeholders to support downtown revitalization efforts and promote successful compliance across the District. The event provided an opportunity to strengthen connections with industry leaders and discuss collaborative solutions for building a stronger, more vibrant DC.
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Teamwork in Action: DOB and DPW Tackle Illegal Dumping in Anacostia
Thanks to swift reporting by community representatives, DOB and the DC Department of Public Works (DPW) abated mounds of trash and illegally dumped tires at two properties in historic Anacostia. DOB’s abatement team removed the trash and organized the tires for DPW to collect. A DOB housing inspector also looked for additional housing code violations.
Community input is essential—if you notice unsafe and unsanitary conditions in your neighborhood, contact 311 or visit 311.dc.gov. Your voice makes a difference!
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Smart Growth and Sustainability at the Anacostia BID’s Big Chair Panel
On Earth Day (April 22), Director Hanlon joined public- and private-sector leaders for the Anacostia BID’s Big Chair Panel Discussion, focusing on smart growth, sustainability, and community-centered development East of the River.
Reflecting on his first two years leading DOB, Director Hanlon discussed how the agency is evolving beyond pandemic-era digital pivots to deliver more face-to-face service improvements. Highlights included the Homeowner Resource Center launch and new initiatives like activating vacant spaces through Pop-Up Permits.
This commitment to making services clearer, simpler, and faster is reshaping how DOB supports residents, empowers local businesses, and helps build a stronger, greener DC.
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Team DOB Joins Ward 7 Community Partners for Walkthrough
DOB staff recently joined members of Advisory Neighborhood Commission 7B and community leaders for a walkthrough on O Street SE, where neighbors have experienced ongoing flooding issues tied to a prolonged home development site and a city-owned retaining wall in need of maintenance.
Thank you to the residents and agency partners who participated. Together, we are working to map out next steps toward a long-term solution, with a continued focus on public safety and neighborhood resilience.
Photo Credit: Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder
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As part of a new Building Connections miniseries with Greater Greater Washington, DOB Strategic Enforcement Administrator Keith Parsons is breaking down the basics of residential housing inspections in DC.
In the first installment, Keith explains why DOB conducts housing inspections, how complaint-based inspections help identify hazards and protect tenants, and how the agency balances the needs of both tenants and landlord through thoughtful enforcement.
The May article in the series will explore inspections tied to Basic Business Licenses, followed by a June article on DOB’s proactive inspection program.
 Following Earth Day, this month’s Building for Tomorrow Today segment will spotlight how all-electric homes power a cleaner, healthier future for DC.
All-electric homes run entirely on electricity rather than gas or oil and use high-efficiency technologies like heat pumps, induction stoves, and electric water heaters. They offer healthier indoor air, lower utility costs, and help reduce carbon emissions—all key to meeting the District’s climate goals.
In DC, new developments like the all-electric townhomes near Union Market show what’s possible. These homes feature rooftop solar panels, EV chargers, and ultra-efficient appliances—all designed for cleaner living without sacrificing style, comfort, or convenience. Projects like this demonstrate how sustainable building can support vibrant, walkable neighborhoods.
Interested in electrifying your home or learning more? Explore these resources:
How should DC grow over the next 25 years? Your voice can help decide.
DC 2050, the District’s next Comprehensive Plan, is currently in development and will guide how we build, grow, and evolve for the next generation.
At DOB, zoning and land use decisions directly impact our work—from reviewing building plans to issuing permits and ensuring development reflects community goals.
We encourage all residents to take the DC 2050 Vision Survey and help shape the future of zoning, housing, and infrastructure across the District.
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The future of DC’s buildings is electric! Join DOB at the second annual Healthy Homes Fair on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Catholic University to learn how clean energy technologies can make homes healthier, safer, and more resilient.
Get hands-on with the latest innovations, plus take advantage of free Academy training sessions, earn CEU credits, and enter to win state-of-the-art appliances.
Our team will also be there to answer your questions about net-zero buildings and permitting to help accelerate the District’s clean energy transition.
Bring the family and celebrate Mother’s Day weekend with a fun, informative day out!
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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 at 202.671.3500, and we will get back to you in three business days or less.
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DOB's updated Customer Service hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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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.
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If you live in a residential zone and plan to work on your home, please get in touch with DOB to ensure your proposed work is properly permitted under District law. This especially applies to larger projects that you are considering. DOB wants to ensure all involved parties are on the same page regarding District regulations to ensure safety for all.
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