In the performance of the duties set forth in § 150.26, the Building Official or an authorized agent or representative of the Building and Codes Division shall have and may exercise the following powers:
(A) Issue building permits. This division is charged with the responsibility of issuing building permits in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
(B) Perform inspections. This division shall inspect or cause to be inspected all construction, installation or work for compliance with the provisions of this chapter.
(C) Right-of-entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the building official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a structure or on a premises a condition that is contrary to or in violation of this code that makes the structure or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the building official is authorized to enter the structure or premises at reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed by this code, provided that is such structure or premises be occupied that credentials be presented to the occupant and entry requested. If such structure or premises is unoccupied, the building official shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other person having charge or control of the structure or premises and request entry. If entry is refused, the building official shall have recourse to the remedies provided by law to secure entry.
(D) Issue stop work orders. Upon notice from the building official that work on any building, structure or installation is being done contrary to the provisions of this chapter or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the work shall be stopped immediately. Stop notices shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, to the owner's agent or to the person doing the work and shall state the conditions under which work may be resumed. Where an emergency exists, a written notice shall not be required. Any work that continues in or about the structure after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by § 150.99.
(E) Approve alternate materials, design, and alternate methods of construction. Alternate materials, design, and methods of construction not specifically prescribed by this chapter must be approved and authorized by the building official. The building official shall approve any such alternative materials, design, or alternate methods of construction, provided they comply with the intent and purpose of this chapter and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed by this chapter in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire-resistance, durability and safety. The building official shall require that sufficient evidence or proof be submitted to substantiate any claim that may be made regarding its use. Where an alternative material, design or method of construction is not approved, the building official shall respond in writing, stating the reasons why the alternative was not approved.
(F) Records and reports. The Building Official shall maintain comprehensive records of building permit applications, of permits issued, of certificates of occupancy or completion of all inspections made, of reports rendered and of notices or orders issued. Written reports covering the activities of the division shall be submitted at the request of the county manager. All records of the building and codes division shall be open to public inspection for good and sufficient reasons during stated office hours, but shall not be removed from the office without the written consent of the building official or planning and development services director. Records are to be maintained in accordance with county retention policies.
(Ord. 822, passed 2-7-22)