Building Official Limited Program

Program description

The Building Official Limited and Accessibility Specialist Program is an introductory training course designed to provide exposure to the fundamental concepts and subject matter necessary to begin a career either as a municipal building official limited or accessibility specialist. Participation in the course is mandatory prior to taking the respective exam to become a certified building official limited or certified accessibility specialist. However, participation is waived if an individual possesses a Building Inspection Technology Certificate. 

Course participants possess various levels of code and construction experience. Therefore, prior familiarization with the code books and subject matter will enhance what participants will learn from the program. Course content includes topics contained in each of the exams, but the focus and intent of the program is not exam preparation. Subsequent review and study of the course material is essential to maximize success on the exams.

Building official limited

This five-day Building Official Limited Course provides training about Minnesota State Building Code application, including Accessibility Specialist training and certification. It covers statutory and administrative provisions, as well as specific Minnesota codes for building, energy, plumbing, mechanical, fuel gas and accessibility.

Individuals seeking this certification must first demonstrate a minimum level of competency by way of formal education, certification or career experience in one or more topics related to building code administration, building construction, design, architecture, engineering or closely related as set forth in Minnesota Rules 1301.0300. A minimum of 30 points must be obtained prior to taking the building official limited exam. Upon passing the exam, 20 points will be awarded. One who wishes to further their certification may use these points in conjunction with others earned toward obtaining 100 points to qualify for the full building official certification exam.

Accessibility specialist

The Accessibility Specialist Training is a one-day class focusing on the scoping and technical criteria of the Minnesota Accessibility Code and its application to commercial building plan review. Those who desire to specialize in accessibility may choose this certification without completing the broader Building Official Limited Course. Topics include Minnesota Accessibility Code and commercial plan review.

After completing the one-day Accessibility Specialist Training, an individual is qualified to register for the certified accessibility specialist exam.

Building official and building official-limited certification

Minnesota licenses “building officials,” whether as a municipal building inspector or the designated building official of a jurisdiction under two categories: a building official-limited (BO-L), and a building official (BO). The two licenses are similar, but there are some limitations for a BO-L license holder. One of these two licenses would be held by an individual who inspects construction work performed in conjunction with a construction permit to ensure that the work performed meets the minimum State Building Code requirements. These license types do not apply to individuals performing home inspections as a part of a real estate transaction. Typically, a licensed building inspector is employed by a city or jurisdiction, but in some cases may work for a private company that provides inspection services to multiple smaller municipalities under contract.

Steps to become a certified building official, building official-limited or accessibility specialist.