The Code Enforcement Section ensures that new
commercial structures and places of public assembly and access built within the
unincorporated areas meet standards as outlined by the International Fire and
Building Codes, as well as, NFPA Standards adopted by Bexar County Commissioners
Court. This process begins with the submission of an application for
building permit along with design blue prints for the proposed structure.
These plans are reviewed to ensure compliance and when approved a building
permit is issued. Inspections are conducted during each phase of the
construction project, and when the building is complete, a certificate of
compliance is issued. This process is also required for the installation
or modification of any Fire Protection System.
In
August of 1993, the
Commissioners Court
established building codes for the
unincorporated area of Bexar County. On
November 18, 2003
, the
Commissioners Court
approved the adoption of the 2003 International
Fire and Building Codes. All new
commercial and public buildings are required to have a building permit and
comply with the new International Codes, which became effective on
November 28, 2003
. This
has contributed to safer buildings, benefiting both citizens and firefighters.
The Code Enforcement Office completes detailed plan reviews and conducts
on-site construction inspection. The
Fire Marshal issues building permits and certificates of compliance.
The
Bexar County Fire Marshal's Office, Fire Code Enforcement section is currently
staffed with the Fire Marshal and one Code Enforcement Inspector. The
three Inspectors assigned to Fire Prevention are also utilized to assist within
this area. This individuals work on a 40 hour work week, with occasional
evening and weekend assignments.
