Inspection Adjustments And Statuses

Inspection Adjustments And Statuses Compiled by Mark Puppe, Communications & Public Affairs Strategist

The city of Fargo has implemented a city-wide mask mandate and all inspectors are abiding by it. The inspections department continues accepting plans in the outside bin at the north entrance but encourages digital submittals whenever possible. The system is not totally set up so inspections asks you to request confirmation that plans were received, and what further steps are required. Being entirely paperless is in Fargo’s future and the transition is collaborative effort and the inspections department thanks builders for their patience and assistance upholding health standards during these uncertain times. Moorhead Building Official Jack Nyberg says most building inspections are being done on-site and according to CDC protocols. Masks must be worn if social distancing isn’t possible. Inspectors will conduct video or photo inspections when homeowners or contractors expect “no contact” work environments. He advises builders to know building partners’ and customers’ expectations before going too far. Nyberg also reminds builders that cold and flu season can cause greater healthcare concerns with the potential to change inspection standards. Steve Schroeder executes inspections for Dilworth and Glyndon where he is currently working from city offices Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The city has installed sanitization stations and requires masks for visitors. Schroeder takes phone calls and inspection photos on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Horace building inspector Keith Asheim explained that “Horace is primarily concerned about receiving inspection requests with enough advanced notice to adjust for changing conditions, and that individuals that visit our city hall and are working on the jobsite are respectful and mindful of others health.”

Asheim said the city strives to complete inspections within 12 business hours.

“We know that it is difficult to provide exact times for work like concrete and sewer and water, but we would like to know that this work is being proposed in advance. If an inspection request is accepted in advance we will accept a two-hour window prior to preferred inspection time to confirm

the inspection request.” Deputy Inspections Administrator Mark Housh reports that the inspections office has been and will continue receiving all permit applications and plan submittals through email. Applicants are notified about permit approval via email and have the option to pay using a credit card over the phone or by sending a check to the inspections department.

West Fargo has encountered some jobsites with persons who have tested positive for COVID-19. If someone on a jobsite has tested positive, Housh asks builders to contact the inspections department so proper precautions can be taken.

Outdoor inspections require social distancing at all times and indoor inspections require social distancing and masks. Inspectors have constant discretion to ask for the jobsite to be cleared so that they can conduct inspections as requested.

“Please make sure that the work is ready to be inspected, and to not proceed with work that covers the work requiring inspection,” Housh requests. “Having to remove items so we can inspect wastes everyone’s time and cost money.”