Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Permits

Go to the Mason Permit website for information on the application process. Mason OUBO goal is to complete the review process within 10 working days.  Re-Submissions delay the process rendering it imperative that all required documentation is provided at the time of request to allow for this time frame.  Limited Scope projects can typically be reviewed within 2-3 working days.

Minimum Document Requirements

Required information for all plans unless waived by OUBO Building Official in writing:

  • Building name
  • Building level
  • Identify use of each space/room
  • Area in square feet for each space/room
  • Drawing Graphic Scale
  • Key plan showing location of work
  • Date or revision #
  • Requester
  • Project scope in detail

Construction Documents requiring the A/E seal for permit.

  • PDF Format – Drawings, Project Manual
  • Full size Hard Copy – Drawings, Project Manual to Mason BCS, Facilities Admin Building Room 108
  • A Work Order number is required for all requests.
  • Land Disturbance Permit / Asbestos Statement if applicable

Construction Documents NOT requiring the A/E seal for permit.

  • Digital pdf file with the Review or Permit Request
  • 11″ X 17″ complete Hard Copy set of drawings to Mason BCS, Facilities Admin Building Room 108
  • A Work Order number is required for all requests.
  • Land Disturbance Permit / Asbestos Statement if applicable

Documents should be submitted through e-Builder. For additional information go Permits.

Mason OUBO goal is to complete the review process within 10 working days. Re-Submissions delay the process rendering it imperative that all required documentation is provided at the time of request to allow for this time frame.

5 days – Schematic, Small Projects

10 days – Preliminary Reviews

15 days – Construction Drawings and first submittal of Shop Drawings

Limited Scope projects can typically be reviewed within 2-3 working days

To check the status of projects and building permits go to e-Builder.

You will be required to submit drawings and documents with an application immediately for review. A Stop Work order will be served and the project delayed. Continued failure to follow the requirements of the building code will result in a Notice of Violation as well as a stop work order. Violations will be reported to the University administration, DEB, and State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO).

Partial building permits are an important tool for many of our integrated design and design/build projects and are fully supported and encouraged by OUBO when needed. However, a partial building permit requires an additional level of responsibility on the part of the project manager to keep the design on track and well ahead of construction. It also requires an additional level of responsibility for the construction administration manager to ensure construction does not continue beyond that which is approved. Please review the Procedure Guideline for Issuance of Partial Building Permits 2018 Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC).

Complete and submit a Code Modification Request form and with the documentation from a licensed professional architect/engineer to substantiate the equivalency of the proposed method to the Office of University Building Official at oubo@gmu.edu. Issuance of Modifications would be in accordance with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (VUSBC) 2018, Section 106.3.

The Building Official may, but is not required to approve this modification provided that the spirit and functional intent of the VUSBC are observed and public health, welfare, and safety are assured. Regardless of the Building Official’s decision, this application and subsequent written decision will be made a permanent record of the University Building Officials Office.

Mason’s Project Permit will be closed out after OUBO receives sealed and signed as-built/record drawings.

Land Development Permit

Mason LD staff review site plans including ESC and SWM in accordance with the Annual Standards and Specifications. Mason’s Annual Standards and Specifications for ESC and SWM apply to all project design, construction, inspection, and maintenance activities on Mason properties. For more information visit Mason Land Development Permit.