BUILDINGS AND SAFETY ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
History
Building permits were first issued in 1877 under provisions of ordinances enforced by several departments. The first official building code was enacted in 1911. The Buildings and Safety Engineering Department (BSED) was established when the old City Charter became effective in 1918. The Department has quasi-police powers for enforcing the various ordinances under its jurisdiction, and operates under a director appointed by the Mayor.
These ordinances provide for the health, safety and welfare of the people. The State of Michigan enacted Public Act 245 of 1999 that required that a single construction code adopted by the State be enforced throughout Michigan. Today, BSED enforces those single construction codes and other City ordinances pertaining to the building environment.
Organization
The Department is made up of several divisions and units within divisions. The main divisions are:
Plan Review
Buildings Inspection
Mechanical/Electrical Inspection
Housing/ Plumbing Inspection
Property Maintenance
Licenses/Permits Division
Of the approximate 275 employees, nearly 120 are engaged in inspection work.