August 2026 Edition
The end of summer is always a good time to take stock of the progress we’ve made and refocus on the work ahead. At DOB, that means continuing to improve how we serve you, strengthening the way we protect the District’s built environment, and staying connected to the communities that depend on us.
In this issue, we share our new Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-2028 Strategic Enforcement Plan, which charts the next three years of our work to make enforcement more proactive, data-informed, and effective. From improving inspections and embracing new technology to strengthening partnerships, the plan builds on what we have learned during DOB’s first three years and sets a clear direction for what comes next.
That focus on progress extends to the everyday customer experience. Our upgraded eRecords platform is making it easier to find and retrieve public building records, and DOB is now the home for new Home Occupation Permit applications. Both changes reflect our continued effort to make our systems simpler, more accessible, and easier to navigate.
Of course, good service also means showing up. Throughout the District, Team DOB continues to connect with residents, share resources, answer questions, and help customers better understand the permitting, inspection, and building safety processes that affect their homes, businesses, and neighborhoods.
We are also seeing continued progress at the RFK Campus, where planning, partnerships, and preparations for the future are moving forward. I am particularly excited that the Washington Commanders has selected a construction team, and their first major initiative is a September 9 Construction Kick-Off & Resource Expo that will advise local businesses on upcoming contracting and bidding opportunities.
Heading into the second half of the year, our priorities remain clear: stronger enforcement, better service, meaningful partnerships, and continued progress for the District. Thank you for staying engaged with us and for your continued partnership in keeping DC safe, green, and moving.
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 Brian J. Hanlon, AIA LEED AP®
Director
The enhanced platform makes it easier and more convenient to find and retrieve public building records online. With a streamlined design that works across modern browsers and devices, customers can quickly search by address, record number, or both without navigating a complicated system.
The new eRecords experience also brings five public record types together in one place, including building permits, Certificates of Occupancy, neighbor notifications, final orders from the Office of Administrative Hearings, and Notices of Infraction.
With simplified searches, more focused results, and easier access to the documents you need, the upgraded platform is another way DOB is modernizing how we serve District residents, businesses, and stakeholders.
Effective building code enforcement isn’t just about responding to problems, it’s about anticipating where attention is needed most.
DOB’s new Fiscal Year 2026 – 2028 Strategic Enforcement Plan outlines how the agency will strengthen its approach over the next three years through improved inspections, risk-based strategies, technology and automation, stronger partnerships, and more proactive enforcement.
It’s all part of our continued work to make enforcement more effective while keeping DC’s built environment safe, green, and moving.
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After a summer of conversations about the future of DC’s construction codes DOB’s Construction Code Development Listening Session series is entering its final stretch, and there are still two opportunities to make your voice heard.
Join us virtually in September to share your experiences with the District’s current codes and ideas for future improvements:
September 9 – Energy Conservation & Green Construction
Help us explore how the District’s codes can continue advancing energy efficiency, sustainability, and greener construction.
Share your perspective on current fire code requirements and potential updates that can strengthen safety while meeting the needs of District communities.
Feedback gathered throughout the series will help inform DOB’s proposed construction code updates, with formal opportunities for public comment to come as the construction code development process moves forward.
Planning a home improvement project? Have questions about housing inspections? Not sure what separates permitted work from illegal construction? Team DOB is here to help!
Join us on Thursday, September 17 for the next Build with Confidence Workshop, a free session designed to give District residents, homeowners, and businesses a clearer understanding of how key DOB processes work.
DOB experts will break down the permitting process, housing inspections, and illegal construction, including what to expect, common issues to avoid, and the tools and resources available to help you navigate your next project with confidence.
Whether you're starting a new project or simply want to better understand how DOB works, come ready to learn, ask questions, and leave better equipped to navigate DC's built environment.
What’s Next for the RFK Campus Master Plan?
Last month, we encouraged you to make your voice heard on the draft RFK Campus Master Plan, and the community answered the call!
The DC Office of Planning (OP) received more than 3,000 comments from over 1,200 community members through its online form, emails, and public hearing testimony. Now OP is reviewing that feedback and will make revisions to the final Master Plan where appropriate.
The next step? OP plans to submit the Master Plan to the DC Council in late September for consideration and approval. The Council may also hold a public hearing on the plan, with approval anticipated later this fall.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to weigh in and help shape the future of the RFK Campus. Stay tuned as the planning process moves forward!
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Construction Team Selected for New Stadium
Another major milestone is taking shape at the RFK Campus.
The Washington Commanders have selected a joint venture of Clark Construction Group, Mortenson, and Smoot Construction Company of Washington, DC to lead construction of the new RFK Stadium. Together, the team brings extensive experience delivering major sports, entertainment, and large-scale construction projects.
The approximately 65,000-seat, 1.8-million-square-foot enclosed stadium will anchor the broader RFK Campus redevelopment, with opportunities for DC businesses and residents to play a role in bringing the project to life.
Want to get involved? On Wednesday, September 9, Clark, Mortenson, and Smoot DC, in partnership with the DC Department of Small and Local Business Development, DC Office of Employment Services, and DOB, will host First & Goal: New Commanders Stadium Construction Kick-Off & Resource Expo. Construction businesses, contractors, vendors, and suppliers can learn about upcoming contracting and bidding opportunities, connect with project leadership, explore certified business enterprise certification, and participate in workshops designed to help local businesses prepare for opportunities ahead.
The free event will take place from 7:30 – 11:30 a.m. at Capital Turnaround, 700 M Street SE.
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RFK Redevelopment Could Bring New Chapter for DC Armory
As plans for the transformation of the RFK Campus continue to move forward, another longtime fixture of the area could be entering a new chapter. The National Park Service (NPS) has proposed transferring administrative jurisdiction of the DC Armory Campus to the District government.
The potential transfer comes as planning and construction activity surrounding the new stadium and broader RFK Campus redevelopment continues to advance. NPS recently submitted the proposed jurisdictional transfer to the National Capital Planning Commission for consideration. If approved, it would give the District administrative control of another key property adjacent to the redevelopment area while the federal government retains ownership of the land.
Photo Credit: AP Photo/Steve Helber
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Building a More Sustainable Future at RFK
As the RFK Campus enters a new chapter, sustainability remains an important part of the conversation around its transformation.
A New C40 Cities Circular Construction Material Reuse Handbook highlights strategies cities can use to reduce construction waste and keep valuable building materials in use longer. Here in the District, those principles connect with the deconstruction of the former RFK Stadium – where most demolition waste was diverted from landfills and recycled – and the broader work of District partners to advance a more sustainable future for the campus.
As redevelopment moves forward, DOB is proud to work alongside our government partners to support a built environment that is safe, sustainable, and ready for what’s next.
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If you operate – or are planning to start – a business from your DC residence, there’s an important change to know.
As of August 10, 2026, all new Home Occupation Permit (HOP) applications are processed by DOB, transitioning from the DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP).
A HOP is required for most businesses, professions, or other economic activities operated from a person’s primary residence. Most home office uses are eligible for an auto-issued HOP, while uses such as childcare and lodging require additional staff review.
Already have an Expedited Home Occupation Permit (EHOP)? No need to reapply. Existing permits remain valid and will continue to be recognized by DOB unless you move or make changes to your business.
DOB and DLCP are working together to make the transition as seamless as possible for District entrepreneurs and home-based businesses.
In a recent article for the International Code Council’s Building Safety Journal, Third-Party Program Manager Mayda V. Colón draws on her experience in the District to explore how transparency, consistency, and stakeholder engagement can help build trust in regulatory programs.
The article offers a look at DOB’s approach while sharing insights that other building officials and jurisdictions can apply to their own third-party oversight efforts.
Ward 7 and 8 Community Affairs Liaison Dellannea Hutchinson and Community Affairs Manager Dione Williams joined the festivities to connect with attendees, share helpful DOB information and updates, and answer questions about the agency’s services.
Hosted by the Greater Washington Urban League, the weekly gathering brings seniors together for an afternoon of community, wellness and connection, and Team DOB was happy to be a part of it!
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Report illegal construction, vacant property, or property maintenance issues: Contact DC311 or 311.dc.gov
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DOB Walk-in Customer Service Center Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
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Contact DOB: Email dob@dc.gov, online inquiry form or live chat at dob.dc.gov, or call 202.671.3500. We will get back to you in three business days or less.
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Need a permit?: If you are planning a residential or commercial project, visit our Permitting page to ensure your proposed work is properly permitted under District law.
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