After reviewing thousands of building permit applications as a former Safety Codes Officer and Building Code Engineer, I continue to see the same avoidable issues causing permit delays — particularly on Part 3 and interior renovation projects.
These delays are rarely caused by overly complex designs. More often, they stem from early misinterpretation of building code requirements.
Below are some of the most common reasons permit applications are placed on hold.
1. Incorrect Building Classification (Part 3 vs Part 9)
A frequent issue is submitting a project as Part 9 when it clearly falls under Part 3 due to building area, height, occupancy, or the inclusion of mezzanines.
Once identified during review, this often leads to significant redesign, additional life safety requirements, and schedule impacts.
2. Non-Compliant Mezzanine Design
Mezzanines are one of the most common permit review problem areas.
Typical issues include:
- Insufficient clear height
- Exceeding allowable mezzanine area
- Missing or non-compliant stairs
- Fire separation deficiencies
Small dimensional errors can invalidate the entire mezzanine layout.
3. High Building Requirements Overlooked (NBC 3.2.6)
Many teams underestimate how easily a project can trigger high building requirements.
Once Article 3.2.6 applies, additional systems such as emergency power, smoke control, and enhanced fire protection may be required. Identifying this late almost always results in costly redesign.
4. Missing or Incomplete Code Analysis
Applications are often delayed due to:
- No occupant load calculations
- No exiting analysis
- No fire separation summary
- No reference to applicable NBC articles
Clear code rationale upfront significantly improves review efficiency.
5. Unverified or Non-Compliant Materials
Imported or alternative materials frequently cause delays when certification or fire performance documentation is missing or unclear.
Final Thought
Most permit delays are predictable and preventable. Early confirmation of building classification, mezzanine compliance, and high building triggers can save weeks — sometimes months — in the approval process.
Projects involving Part 3 buildings, mezzanines, or alternative solutions benefit greatly from early code review before drawings are finalized.
About the Author Bing Ting Duan, P.Eng. Former City of Calgary Safety Codes Officer & Senior Building Code Engineer 13+ years of code enforcement experience | 8,000+ projects reviewed
If you’re navigating a complex permit submission and want to reduce review risk, feel free to connect.
