City of Leeds Announces Self-Certification & One Permit

Self-Certification Permitting Process Guide

Introduction

Welcome to the Self-Certification Permitting Process Guide. This guide is designed to help you understand and navigate the self-certification permitting process. Self-certification permits are a way to streamline the approval process for certain activities and projects while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Table of Contents

1. Understanding Self-Certification Permits
2. Eligibility Criteria

• Documentation and Requirements

1. Application Process
2. Review and Approval
3. Renewals and Modifications

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Contact Information

 

Understanding Self-Certification Permits

Self-certification permits are a simplified way to obtain permits for specific activities or projects. These permits are typically used for activities where the applicant, usually the property owner or project manager, takes responsibility for compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.

 

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying for a self-certification permit, make sure your project meets the eligibility criteria. Common eligibility criteria may include:

• The project must comply with zoning regulations.
• The applicant must have the necessary qualifications or licenses.
• The project must not involve complex environmental or safety concerns.
• Determine Eligibility: Confirm that your project meets the eligibility criteria.
• Prepare Documentation: Gather all necessary documentation, including licenses, and any other required materials.
• The project must comply with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations. This includes but is not limited to Zoning, Storm Water and Flood Development.

 

Documentation and Requirements

The documentation and requirements may vary depending on the type of project and your jurisdiction. Common documentation includes:

Government issued I.D.

Proof of Self-Certification Provider Registration

Zoning Approval

Proof of health department, sewer impact and/or grease permit

 

Application for Zoning Approval

Prior to commencing an application for a self-certification permit in the City of Leeds, you will first need to obtain Zoning Approval. An Application for Zoning Approval can be filled out at City Hall or by utilizing the Citizen Serve portal. Upon review, to obtain approval, you may be required to meet the requirements of local, state, or federal regulations before you are permitted to move forward in the application process. Once you have obtained the Zoning Approval and your Self-Inspector license for your project, you can move on to the next step of submitting your application for a Self-Certification permit.

 

Application Process

The application process typically involves the following steps:

1. Register as a Self-Certification Provider

Anyone that wishes to offer their services as a Self-Certification Provider must first make an application and obtain Self-Inspector license with the City of Leeds City Clerk. This can be done by submitting a registration at City Hall or by utilizing the Citizen Serve portal. To submit a complete application, the provider will need a current City of Leeds business license, a government issued I.D, and a copy of the State Certification for which they will be providing self-certification. Each individual trade that intends to participate self-certification will need to obtain their own individual license for that trade. Once the Self-Inspector license and Zoning Approval have been obtained, you can move to the next step of applying for the permit.

 

2. Application for the Permit

The application for a Self-Certification permit can be submitted by following these steps in this order:

1. The first document that must be completed and submitted is a copy of the Hold Harmless Letter. This document will be provided to you as a guide but must be printed on the property owner’s letterhead.
2. The third document that must be completed and submitted is a copy of the Professional of Record Statement. This document will allow you to submit the credentials of the contractors who will be providing self-certification.
3. The third document that must be submitted is either the Residential-Single Family & Duplex Permit Application or the Commercial-Multi Family Permit Application. Only one of these documents must be submitted, depending on the type of project.
4. The last document that may need to be completed and submitted is a copy of the Owner-Tenant Certification Statement. This document is optional if there is not an active tenant at the time of the application. If there is an active tenant, this document must be completed and submitted.

 

Complete Application: Fill out the self-certification permit application forms. Ensure that all required information is accurate and complete.

Submit Application: Submit your application to the Development Services Department.

 

Review and Approval

The City staff will evaluate your application for compliance with the Self-Certification Regulations.

• Approval: If your application meets all requirements, you will receive approval to make payment and proceed with your project.

• Rejection: If your application is incomplete or does not meet requirements, you will be notified of necessary corrections or additional information needed.

 

Renewals and Modifications

Depending on the duration and scope of your project, you may need to renew your permit or request an extension. Follow the same application process for renewals and modifications as for initial permits. Please be advised that if any changes or modifications from the original application occur you must submit the modifications in writing to the Development Services Department.

• Application for the Certificate of Occupancy
• Once the project has been completed, and you wish to obtain a copy of the Certificate of Occupancy, please complete an Application for a Certificate of Occupancy.
• Upon the application is completed and received by City staff, a copy of the Certificate of Occupancy will be issued.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about self-certification permits:

Q: Who is required to register and obtain a Self-Inspector license?

A: Any person that holds a State of Alabama certification that wishes to participate in the Self-Certification Program.

Q: Do I have to participate in the Self-Certification Program if the Home Builder or General Contractor that I am subcontracting for is participating?

A: Yes. If a project is part of the Self-Certification Program, then all contractors for that project must participate.

 

Contact Information:

• City Administrator: bwatson@leedsalabama.gov / p. 205-699-0903
• City Clerk: tarbitelle@leedsalabama.gov / p. 205-864-5258
• Permit Coordinator: hmathis@leedsalabama.gov / p. 205-699-0934
• Building Inspections Superintendent:  gwilliams@leedsalabama.gov / p. 205-699-0907
• Development Services Department

For other contact information for the City of Leeds, please visit our contact page.