Dubuque, IA Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)

Section 14-1A-1 adopts the International Building Code, 2021 edition, by reference as the City's building code, naming it the 'Dubuque Building Code' and making it controlling for construction of buildings and structures citywide. Section 14-1A-2 amends specific IBC sections for local use: amended Section 103.1 creates the Inspection & Construction Services Division and names its head the Building Official, responsible for implementing, administering, and enforcing the code, while amended Section 202 clarifies that 'Building Official' and 'Code Official' mean the same enforcing authority. Amended Section 105.5 sets permit expiration: a permit becomes invalid unless the authorized work is completed within one year of issuance, though the Building Official can grant one or more written extensions of up to 180 days each if the applicant requests it in writing and justifies the delay.

Amended Section 114 makes it unlawful to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, or demolish a building or structure in violation of the adopted code, with each day of an ongoing violation a separate offense punishable under Title 1 of the City Code; staff may issue a municipal infraction directly without first sending a notice of violation. Separately, section 14-1A-3 blocks the Building Official from issuing a building permit for property under active consideration for a zoning reclassification or a zoning or subdivision text amendment, from the date that application is filed with Planning Services until the City Council takes final action, unless the Council waives the prohibition by resolution.