Colorado Department of Public Safety

Division of Fire Safety

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Public Schools FAQ's

1. What building codes and standards have been adopted for the construction of public schools?
2. What other state agencies require reviews, permits and approvals for public school construction?
3. Will fees be charged for state reviews, inspections and approval of public school construction?
4. What is the procedure for submitting school plans and specifications for state approval?
5. How do you "Close-Out" a Building Permit, and obtain a "Final Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.)"?

If you have further questions, contact the Public Safety Office at 303-239-4600.

1.  What building codes and standards have been adopted for the construction of public schools?

Effective January 1, 2009 - All Public School Construction projects shall be approved only under the following codes:

• International Building Code - 2006 Edition, Third Printing: March 2007 (Copyright 2006 by International Code Council, Inc. Washington, D.C.)

• International Fire Code - 2006 Edition, Third Printing: April 2007 (Copyright 2006 by International Code Council, Inc. - Washington, D.C.), including Appendices B and C.

• International Mechanical Code - 2006 Edition, Second Printing: December 2007 (Copyright 2006 by International Code Council, Inc. - Washington, D.C.)

• International Energy Conservation Code - 2006 Edition, First Printing: January 2007 (Copyright 2006 by International Code Council, Inc. - Washington, D.C.)

• International Existing Building Code- 2006 Edition, First Printing: January 2007 (Copyright 2006 by International Code Council, Inc. - Washington, D.C.)

• International Residential Code – 2006 Edition, Second Printing: November 2006 (Copyright 2006 by International Code Council, Inc. - Washington, D.C.)

2.  What other state agencies require reviews, permits and approvals for public school construction?

The following agencies require approvals:

1. State Electrical Board
2. State Plumbing Board
3. State Health Department
4. State Boiler Inspection Section
5. Local Fire Department

3.  Will fees be charged for state reviews, inspections and approval of public school construction?

Yes. Fees will be charged for all projects; the amount will be determined at the time of the plan review.

4.  What is the procedure for submitting school plans and specifications for state approval?

Submit two sets of drawings stamped by the Architect and Engineer, along with an application -- allow eight to ten weeks for final approval.

NOTE:  1/2 Size drawings are required for large projects!  Check with the Public Safety Section.

5.  How do you "Close-Out" a Building Permit, and obtain a "Final Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.)"?

1. Complete conditions listed on building permit:
   - Electrical and Plumbing Inspections - Final Approval
   - Fire Department - Final Approval
   - Fire Alarms - Final Approval
   - Fire Sprinkler System - Final Approval
   - Health Department Approval - Final Approval
   - New Boilers - Final Approval
   - Elevators/Lifts - Final Approval
    
2. Request an inspection from Division of Fire Safety

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