The Building Safety Department reviews construction plans and issues building permits which are necessary for safety and consumer protection, says Ron Boose, Director of Building Safety and state-designated building official.

In new home construction, the Building Safety Department usually deals with the middleman, the contractor, and rarely with the consumer because getting the permits is part of the builder's job.

The builder submits detailed plans, which Building Safety does not approve in a jiffy. During the peak of the construction season, builders and their eager clients can expect to wait three to four weeks for permits.

If the plan contains mistakes, Building Safety notifies the contractor who must make corrections before the permit is issued.