Building Code Board of Appeals
The Virginia Construction Code and Virginia Maintenance Code (parts I and III, respectively, of the Uniform Statewide Building Code) both require that a Local Board of Building Code Appeals be established by every locality to hear appeals of the decisions of Building Code and Building Maintenance Code Officials.
Overview/Duties
The same board may hear appeals of either code. The code establishes requirements for members of these boards; they should “to the extent possible, represent different occupational or professional fields relating to the construction industry. At least one member should be an experienced builder, at least one member should be a Registered Design Professional, and at least one member should be an experienced property manager.” One member shall be chosen by the board as chairman, and he shall have the power to direct the hearings, rule upon acceptance of evidence, and oversee the record of all proceedings. The board will make decisions to overturn, uphold, or modify the official’s decision based upon a majority vote.
Length of Term
Frequency/Times for Meetings
Membership
This board of appeals is required to have a minimum of five members, appointed by the locality for a specified term of office.
Qualifications
Members are selected based on their ability to render fair and competent decisions regarding application of the USBC. To the extent possible, they will represent different fields relating to the construction industry. It is preferred that one member be an experienced builder, one be a registered design professional and one be a property manager.
City Official
- Building Official
- Fire Marshal
City Board Members
Written records of the board’s current membership can be found at the city offices and are available on request.
References