Commissioner Tagani on Intro 717 permit sign-off notification bill
Tagani addresses Intro 717, explaining the proposed notification timeline (7 days after permit issuance, every 90 days, then every 2 weeks near expiration). DOB supports the intent but warns that frequent notifications may cause owners to ignore them as spam, and expresses willingness to work with the Council.
Engaging with our applicants is also a key piece to making the rest of our process improvements more efficient, and something we understand to be the intention of Councilmember Salam's proposed In Show 717.
Under Intro 717, notices would be sent within seven days after a permit is issued and every 90 days thereafter until sign-off is obtained.
When an open permit is set to expire within 90 days or has expired, DOB would be required to send notices to building owners every two weeks until sign-off is obtained.
These notices would include the permit number, expiration date, explain the need for sign-off, outline inspection requirements, the consequences of failing to comply, and any additional information DOB deems relevant.
DOB supports the intent of this bill and recognizes the importance of educating owners regarding the obligation to obtain permit sign-off.
Notices can be a useful tool to reach owners.
However, the frequency of the proposed notifications, particularly during the 90-day period, may negatively impact their effectiveness.
Inundating with notices may result in owners ignoring such notices or their email box perceiving them as spam.
We believe education and outreach is the right direction, and we look forward to working with the council on this legislation.