File a Building Code Appeal and Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing Code Appeals

Service
File building code appeals, electrical code appeals, mechanical code and plumbing code appeals. This is a fee-based service that provides a formal response. You can request an alternative way to meet the intent of a code provision. You can also confirm an interpretation of building code language.
Man viewing building code appeal form and open laptop on the file appeal webpage

Ask questions first

Consult with plan reviewers or inspectors before submitting an appeal. They can help identify code requirements and possible alternative solutions. You can also read more about the appeal process.

File building code, electrical, mechanical and plumbing code appeals

A complete appeal packet includes the appeal application, plans/supplemental information and the fee. Plans or supplemental information that cannot submitted online can be mailed.

Appeal Packets will be screened for completeness. Submittal of inaccurate or incomplete forms may cause a delay in hearing the appeal. Refer to “How to Write an Appeal and Fill Out an Application for an Appeal” for more information. Filing online is the preferred method for starting an appeal and will help avoid delays. 

The appeal packet must be submitted online by 9 a.m. Thursday, in order to be included at the following Wednesday's appeal meeting. 

Appeal System

Fee payment

After you submit an appeal, we will email you a payment slip with a link to the online payment system. This system can accept both checks and credit cards. 

Appeals fees 

Appeals fees are based on whether the scope of work is being done under a commercial building permit or residential building permit and how many items are being appealed. If you’re not sure whether the scope of work will be a commercial or residential building permit, see PP&D Guide “Do you need a permit?” or schedule a 15-minute appointment with a building code expert. 

The following fees must be submitted with your application:

  • Commercial appeals - $653 (includes 2 appeal items)
  • Residential appeals - $313
  • Commercial additional item fee - $159 (each appeal item over 2)

Learn more about the appeals boards

  • Building Code Board of Appeal: The Building Code Board of Appeal hears appeals of building code issues that are appealed beyond the Administrative Appeals Board. 
  • Electrical Code Board of Appeal: The Electrical Code Board of Appeal hears appeals where the findings of the Director aggrieve an applicant.
  • Mechanical Code Board of Appeal: The Mechanical Board of Appeal determines the suitability of alternate materials and types of construction and provides for reasonable interpretations of the provisions of the Mechanical Code.
  • Plumbing Code Board of Appeal: The Plumbing Code Board of Appeal hears appeals of plumbing code issues that are appealed beyond the Administrative Appeals Board.