October 2026
Dear Customers, Colleagues, and Friends,
Fall is fully underway across the District, bringing cooler days, familiar routines, and a rhythm that guides our community into the final stretch of the year. October also holds special meaning for the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP). On October 1, DLCP celebrated four years since transitioning from what was formerly known as DCRA, a milestone that reflects both progress and purpose as we continue to build an agency rooted in service, clarity, and support.
This anniversary also marks my third year serving as Director. These three years have been a period of tremendous growth, teamwork, and transformation. Together, we have strengthened our licensing processes, expanded consumer protection efforts, and built new, accessible resources for entrepreneurs across the District. Many of the agency’s most meaningful advancements have taken shape during this time, and I am grateful for the dedication of our staff and the trust of the community we serve.
As DLCP enters this next phase, we are moving from being a young, newly established agency into a more mature organization, one driven by consistency, transparency, and a commitment to public service. We are approaching a new wave of modernization and reliability, guided by lessons learned and by the voices of residents and businesses who depend on us every day.
October also provides an important opportunity for recognition. National Hispanic American Heritage Month, from September 15 through October 15, is a moment to honor the contributions of Hispanic entrepreneurs who enrich the District’s economy and cultural landscape. DLCP remains dedicated to supporting these businesses and ensuring they have the tools needed to thrive. This month’s DLCP Hub features a business owner, highlighting their work and the impact they have in our community.
In addition to these celebrations, DLCP serves as a sponsor for DC Startup Week, and I am honored to serve as a speaking partner for the event, which will take place October 19–23. This event brings together innovators and entrepreneurs from across the District, and DLCP is proud to support and engage with the small business community during this dynamic week of learning, connection, and growth.
Thank you for your continued partnership and trust. Your feedback, involvement, and collaboration guide our work daily.
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 Tiffany Crowe
Director
- District of Columbia Joins the US–UK Mutual Recognition Agreement for Engineers
DLCP joined regulatory and engineering partners at the British Embassy to formalize the District’s participation in the United States–United Kingdom Mutual Recognition Agreement (US–UK MRA). This agreement creates a streamlined pathway for professional engineers licensed in the District to receive recognition in the UK, while UK‑chartered engineers gain a reciprocal route to licensure in DC. This milestone expands global mobility for District engineers, reduces administrative barriers, and reinforces the District’s commitment to supporting modern, internationally connected engineering standards.
DLCP continues advancing the Business and Entrepreneurship Support to Thrive Amendment Act of 2021(BEST) Act, creating simpler licensing pathways and reducing burdens for small businesses. With reductions in license categories, lower fees, flexible renewal structures, and fee waivers for very small businesses, the BEST Act is transforming how entrepreneurs enter and grow within the District’s marketplace.
- BOSS: Success by the Numbers
- DLCP launched BOSS, its new unified licensing and registration platform. Within the first five weeks of operation, BOSS showed substantial gains compared to the legacy system:
- Nearly 60% of all new licenses are now approved in less than one business day
- Nearly 40% fewer applications returned to customers
- Nearly 80% reduction in average days to approve
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Short‑Term Rental Legislation Expands Opportunities for Residents
DLCP and Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the Short‑Term Rental Regulation Amendment Act of 2026, modernizing STR laws to create greater economic opportunity for residents. The legislation:
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Allows renters to operate STRs at their primary residence (with restrictions)
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Consolidates endorsement categories to reduce confusion
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Creates a special event STR license for designated holidays or major events
The Business Resource Center (BRC) continued its strong outreach across the District, connecting entrepreneurs with essential support and guidance. Through workshops, direct engagement, and partnerships with community organizations, DLCP provided business owners with clearer access to licensing assistance, resources, and practical tools to help them grow.
DLCP Enforcement partnered with the U.S. Park Police (USPP) and DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services (DCFEMS) in a coordinated inspection operation on the National Mall. USPP facilitated stops for safety and licensing checks, allowing DLCP and DCFEMS to perform detailed compliance reviews. Multiple food trucks were impounded, federal violation notices were issued, and DLCP delivered Notices of Infraction following its inspections.
Our newest DLCP Hub article spotlights Dr. Ana‑Maria Jaramillo, founder of The Voz Institute and the creator of Mount Pleasant’s beloved La Tejana. National Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15 to October 15, honors the cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities, and Jaramillo’s work reflects that spirit across both healthcare and hospitality.
Through The Voz Institute, she expands access to bilingual pediatric care for families across DC, while La Tejana brings her Northern Mexico and Texas roots to the table with award‑winning Tex‑Mex breakfast tacos. Together, these spaces highlight the power of heritage, service, and community connection.
Read the full feature on the DLCP Hub to learn more about Dr. Jaramillo’s impact across the District.
BridgeBio has expanded its work in rare disease by opening a new office in DC, a move shaped in part by insights from Adora Ndu, Pharm.D., J.D. The location strengthens the company’s ability to connect with patient communities, including members of the Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy community who were in the District for advocacy efforts during the opening.
The office will serve as a central space for collaboration with patients, scientific teams, and policy leaders as BridgeBio advances potential treatments for rare genetic conditions and works to address barriers in rare disease research.
Readers can explore the full feature on the DLCP Hub to learn more about BridgeBio’s mission and Ndu’s perspective on the company’s growing presence in DC.
DLCP is proud to sponsor DC Startup & Tech Week 2026 (October 19–23)! Join 9,000+ founders, investors, and ecosystem builders for 5 days of actionable insights, keynotes, and high-impact networking.
As a partner, save 10% on your registration with our exclusive discount code: DLCPDCSTW10OFF.
👉 Register now with promo code DLCPDCSTW10OFF
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At this year’s Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), Director Tiffany Crowe took the stage on Friday, September 18, as part of The Women in Government Lecture Series, offering a powerful reflection on her journey in public service and the meaning of representation in government. |
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Speaking at the event themed “Honoring the Past, Owning the Future,” Director Crowe shared how her career in government has been shaped by dedication, resilience, and a commitment to serving the public. She emphasized the importance of women holding leadership roles, particularly in spaces where decisions directly impact communities.
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Joined by fellow public officials, the event served as a vital platform for elevating leaders who continue to break barriers and expand representation in government. It also highlighted the collective strength and shared purpose of women serving in public roles, each contributing to a future where leadership increasingly reflects the communities they serve. |
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DLCP visited Carlos Rosario International Public Charter School on Wednesday, September 23, for a Business Licensing Workshop supporting entrepreneurs at all stages. DLCP’s Business Resource Center (BRC) guided attendees through a wide range of licensing questions, offering clear and practical direction throughout the session.
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Participants learned how to begin their business journey by completing business entity registration and how to move forward with securing the appropriate business license for their operations. The team explained important details about Home Occupation Permits and Certificates of Occupancy, helping attendees understand when these requirements apply and how to obtain them. |
The workshop also included step-by-step guidance on obtaining the Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR) Clean Hands Certificate, an essential part of the licensing process. The event created an open environment where entrepreneurs could ask questions, gain clarity on specific requirements, and strengthen their ability to navigate the District’s licensing landscape. DLCP continues to engage with residents across DC by sharing information and support that helps business owners move forward with confidence. |
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On Tuesday, September 17, officials from the DC Board of Accountancy, housed within DLCP, attended and participated in a CPA Information Session at George Washington University. The event brought together students, faculty, and accounting professionals for an afternoon of learning, networking, and career exploration. |
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The agenda featured presentations from both the Virginia and DC Boards of Accountancy, providing students with helpful insights into the licensure process, professional standards, and expectations for entering the accounting field. Representatives from the DC Board, including Jason Danielson, Angela Meggett‑Strudwick, and Leon Lewis, spoke with students about the responsibilities of the Board, the pathway to earning a CPA license, and the importance of regulatory oversight in protecting the public interest.
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DLCP’s participation highlights the agency’s commitment to supporting future accounting professionals and strengthening relationships with academic institutions. By engaging directly with students, Board officials help ensure that aspiring CPAs have access to accurate information, mentorship, and a clear understanding of the licensure journey. |
Stay informed on upcoming industry engagement opportunity.
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DC Board of Funeral Directors Practitioners' Forum — Hosted exclusively for DC‑licensed funeral directors on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at the MLK Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G Street NW, Washington, DC 20001. Attendees will earn three continuing education credits during this program.
Check- In 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Program: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
NOTE: This event is open only to DC‑licensed funeral directors. Please have your ACTIVE DC funeral director license number ready when registering.
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2026 Practitioners’ Forum — Hosted by the Board of Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture, and the Board of Professional Engineers. Join us on November 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in DC.
This forum offers practitioners a valuable opportunity to connect with industry peers, gain insights, and participate in discussions relevant to their professions.
DLCP works with nine Boards and Commissions that establish licensing standards, provide professional oversight, and support consumer protection throughout the District. These groups meet regularly to discuss industry matters, review regulatory issues, and offer a transparent forum for public engagement. Community members and stakeholders can stay informed about upcoming meetings by visiting the monthly calendar on our website, which lists dates, times, and additional details.
The Business Resource Center continues to provide practical tools and learning opportunities for District entrepreneurs. This October, the BRC is offering a range of workshops, coaching sessions, and resource events designed to support business owners at every stage of their journey.
Take a moment to explore the complete October event lineup below, and sign up for the sessions that best align with your business objectives.
The Council held a hearing on B26‑757, the Illegal Occupancy Enforcement Amendment Act of 2026, which clarifies that guests do not have a right to remain on a premises after the conclusion of their stay and may be removed. DMPED, MPD, and DLCP provided testimony.
The Council conducted a hearing on B26‑424, the Porchfest Permitting Amendment Act of 2025, a bill that would allow residents participating in Porchfest or similar distributed musical festivals to apply for block party permits. A temporary version of this law is currently in effect and will expire on October 17, 2026.
The Accountancy Practice Amendment Act of 2025 (enacted as Act A26-0412) officially took effect Friday, September 25, 2026. This new DC Law revises the eligibility requirements for accountancy licensure by authorizing a holder of a baccalaureate degree with two years of experience and who has passed an examination in accounting and auditing to obtain a license.
New Legislation for the Upcoming Fiscal Year (Effective October 1, 2026)
L26‑176 – Architect and Engineer Good Samaritan Amendment Act of 2025 Effective September 5, 2026, this law provides limited civil liability protections for licensed architects, engineers, and land surveyors who assist during emergencies without compensation.
A26‑418 – Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Support Act of 2026 Emergency legislation passed by the Council takes effect October 1, 2026, aligning with the start of the new fiscal year. DLCP will implement several updates reflected in the act, including a significant decrease to corporation dissolution and withdrawal fees. A summary of DLCP‑related provisions is available in the attached chart, with additional details on pages 52–53.
Additional Note The Council has sunset the adjustment of civil fines outlined in 16 DCMR 3301–3313 and 15 DCMR 3315, effective January 1, 2026. As a result, DLCP will no longer publish CPI‑based fine adjustments for these infractions. Current fine amounts will remain in place. Further detail can be found on pages 42–43.
Contact DLCP via email, or our online inquiry form at any time. We’re also available through the live chat on dlcp.dc.gov or by phone at 202-671-4500 during normal business hours.
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