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Electronic document requirements and best practices

  • Preferred file type for plans is a PDF.
    • Jurisdictions may require paper copies of documents, in addition to electronic submittals.

  • Maximum file size is 80 MB.
    • For larger files, contact your local building department for submittal options.

  • File security settings must be “unlocked” and free from password protection. “Flatten” documents to help prevent changes.

  • Plans must be drawn to standard scaling using US customary units.   

  • If scanned, drawings should be saved in the same orientation that they are intended to be viewed (“landscape” or “portrait).

  • Separate submittal documents into individually named files; naming conventions for the most common submittal documents:
    • Construction drawings – PLANS 

  • For large plan packages applicants are encouraged to break the plans into disciplines. Include descriptive modifier such as ENG PLANS, ARCH PLANS, MECH PLANS, PLUMB PLANS, ELEC PLANS.
    • Zoning approval – ZONING
    • Additional Energy Measures or COMcheck – ENERGY
    • Site Plan - SITE
    • Plot Map – PLOT
    • Truss Data Sheets – TRUSS DATA
    • Truss Layout sheet – TRUSS LAYOUT
    • Engineer/Architect/Designer calculations (separate pdfs per discipline if more than one submitted) – CALC if only one or if multiple descriptive modifier such as ENG CALC, ARCH CALC, BEAM CALC, LAT CALC
    • Geotechnical or soils report –GEOTECH
    • Product cut sheets – short name that describes the product type such as HVAC, SPRINK, GUARD RAIL

  • Revision documents should be submitted as individually saved PDF files. File name should include document name, revision package number (if applicable) and date of revision. 
    • example: PLANS_REV1_mm-dd-yy.pdf

  • Bookmarking documents may help speed plan review.

  • Paper plans and other documents may be scanned to pdf for submittal. Such documents must be legible which may require special attention to scan resolution and contrast.