Question & AnswerQ&A (DILG-DPWH-DICT-DTI JOINT MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO: 2018-01)
The primary purpose is to set service standards in processing building permits and certificates of occupancy by local government units (LGUs) and to provide guidelines in streamlining the relevant processes, consistent with applicable laws such as the National Building Code of the Philippines, the Fire Code, and the Anti-Red Tape Act.
The main agencies are the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
Section 301 requires that no person or entity shall construct, alter or demolish any building without first obtaining a building permit from the Building Official in the locality where the work is to be done.
The Building Official is the executive officer of the Office of the Building Official appointed by the Secretary of Public Works and Highways, responsible for enforcing the provisions of the National Building Code and related regulations.
OSCP is a coordinated mechanism among the Office of the Building Official, Zoning Office, Assessor's Office, Treasurer's Office, other concerned LGU departments, and the local BFP to co-locate related functions and provide streamlined services for building permits and certificates of occupancy.
An applicant must submit a notarized application form, certified true copy of original or transfer certificate of title or equivalent documents, four sets of certified and sealed plans and specifications, photocopies of valid licenses of involved professionals, and a notarized estimated value of construction, among others.
Applicants must follow a maximum of four steps: Submission of application and documents, receipt of order of payment, payment of fees, and claiming of the building permit.
Simple building permit applications must be evaluated and processed within a maximum of five (5) working days, with the BFP processing the Fire Safety Evaluation Clearance within three (3) working days.
An applicant must submit a notarized Certificate of Completion signed by the owner and licensed professionals, approved plans and specifications, issued building and ancillary permits, locational clearance, fire safety correction sheet and FSEC, photocopies of valid professionals' licenses, and photographs of the completed structure.
The steps include submission of application and documents, receipt of the order of payment, payment of fees and charges, and claiming of the Certificate of Occupancy.
The LCE must designate representatives to the OSCP from the Assessor's Office, Treasurer's Office, and Zoning Office; provide budgetary and logistical support; and ensure local government units comply with the standards set in the Circular.
Cities and municipalities are encouraged to automate and computerize systems related to filing applications, storage, payment of fees, and issuance of permits and certificates to minimize face-to-face interaction and increase efficiency.
Under the Separability Clause, the invalidity or unconstitutionality of any provision shall not affect the remaining provisions, which shall remain in full force and effect.