September 2025 Edition
Dear Customers,
What a monumental month it has been for the District! Our city’s renaissance is happening right before our very eyes, starting with the recent DC Council vote advancing Mayor Bowser’s vision for the RFK Campus redevelopment. The project represents a groundbreaking moment for Ward 7 and the District as a whole, and DOB is ready to play a key role in advancing this work forward.
I had the privilege of sharing DOB’s role in the Mayor’s Growth Agenda and other exciting updates at the DC Chamber’s 2025 State of the District & Region Conference. I discussed how DOB is supporting DC’s economic growth through initiatives like Pop-Up Permits, Fast Track Fit Outs, and streamlined permitting and inspections that keep once-in-a-lifetime projects like the Capital One Arena transformation and the future RFK Campus on track.
Looking ahead, I invite you to join me at The Future of Mass Timber Development in DC on Thursday, October 9, at Sycamore & Oak in Ward 8. This free event will explore how innovative, sustainable materials like mass timber are reshaping the built environment and helping us build smarter, more sustainable spaces.
Lastly, I was thrilled to join Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) Director Tiffany Crowe to cut the ribbon on the newly renovated Walk-In Center at 1100 4th Street SW. The refreshed second floor makes it easier for residents, businesses, and visitors to access a variety of services in a modernized space.
I thank you for your trust in us, and we will continue to work hard every day to deliver DOB's services to you.
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Brian J. Hanlon, AIA LEED AP®
Director
Director Hanlon joined the DC Chamber’s 2025 State of the District & Region Conference to highlight DOB’s role in being a catalyst for economic development. He shared how DOB is “keeping it safe, green, and moving” by streamlining permitting and inspections, reactivating vacant spaces, and supporting downtown housing conversions.
Director Hanlon also emphasized DOB’s role in shaping DC’s future as a global sports hub, ensuring smooth permitting for the Capital One Arena renovations and preparing for the transformative RFK Campus redevelopment. Afterwards, he introduced a panel moderated by Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development Nina Albert and listened to Mayor Bowser’s keynote speech.
Ever wondered what it’s like to be an inspector with DOB? Here’s your chance to find out and even start the process to become one!
Join us on Wednesday, October 29, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., in the newly opened Marion S. Barry Jr. Conference Center at 1100 4th Street SW (second floor) for our Inspector Interest and Information Session.
Meet representatives from DOB’s inspection units, learn about open positions, and take part in on-site interviews for current and future vacancies.
Mass timber is taking root in the nation’s capital, and DOB is helping lead the conversation. Join us on Thursday, October 9, from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at Sycamore & Oak, 1110 Oak Drive SE in Ward 8 for a dynamic event exploring how this sustainable building material is shaping DC’s future.
This free, in-person event will feature regional experts discussing real-world projects, innovative design strategies, and how mass timber is transforming the built environment.
Click the link below to register and discover how mass timber is helping us build smarter, more inspiring spaces.
This month, DOB and DLCP proudly celebrated the reopening of the Walk-In Center on the newly renovated second floor of 1100 4th Street SW. Director Brian Hanlon and DLCP Director Tiffany Crowe officially cut the ribbon, marking the return of this vital in-person resource for District residents and businesses.
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features a larger, more open layout and upgraded technology to improve the overall customer experience. Visitors can now access information, business licensing, consumer protection support, and public space permits in a more efficient environment designed to keep projects moving forward.
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Supporting DC’s Entrepreneurs with Other DC Agencies this Fall
DOB had the pleasure of participating in DLCP’s Fall Harvest Financial Literacy Speed Coaching event to help new and aspiring business owners get set up for success. Team DOB provided guidance on key steps like obtaining Certificates of Occupancy for commercial establishments, securing Home Occupation Permits for home-based businesses, and understanding which building permits are required before opening doors.
By joining DLCP and other government agencies, DOB helped ensure entrepreneurs were left with clear next steps, confidence, and the resources they need to launch and grow their businesses.
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Team DOB Speaks with Ward 8 Residents
DOB’s Strategic Enforcement Administrator Keith Parsons joined Empower DC and tenant leaders for a community conversation on housing conditions and code enforcement at Bread for the City in Ward 8.
During the session, Parsons shared updates on new strategic enforcement initiatives aimed at holding negligent landlords accountable and improving the safety and quality of rental housing across the District. The discussion also allowed tenants to share feedback on how inspections can better serve residents and address long-standing maintenance concerns. Parsons also solicited ideas and feedback for DOB’s FY26 - FY28 Strategic Enforcement Plan, which is currently under development.
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On September 30, customers will notice a revised home page for Tertius, the agency’s construction inspection platform---and that’s just the start of more to come! Tertius allows customers to use either DOB inspectors at no cost or Third-Party Inspection Agencies (TPIAs) for a fee for residential or commercial inspections. The revised home page will better centralize portals for customers and TPIAs as a first step in how the agency is streamlining information about TPIAs. The end result will be an enhanced platform that is not only more robust—but is also very unique in the United States. Stay tuned!
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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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