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Boiler / Unfired Pressure Vessel Permit + Annual Certificate of Inspection: Washington, D.C. restaurant guide

Department of Buildings (DOB)

What it is

New or relocated boilers and unfired pressure vessels need a DOB permit and inspection before approval, and every boiler must be inspected at least once a year by DOB or a DC-licensed boiler insurance company to get the posted annual Certificate of Inspection.

When a restaurant needs it

Installing or replacing a boiler, a large water heater classed as a boiler, or a pressure vessel.

How to apply

Your licensed contractor pulls the Miniature Boiler / Unfired Pressure Vessel / Fuel Burning Equipment supplemental permit on Citizen Access; schedule the inspection with DOB at (202) 442-9557 or through your boiler insurer.

Documents you’ll need

Fee
Boiler/pressure vessel permit $46 each (+10% enhancement); annual Certificate of Inspection $50 per boiler/air compressor (DOB boiler page; the fee schedule lists $33); insurance inspection card $200
Processing time
Varies
Renewal
Annual inspection and certificate
Who files
Installed and permitted by a licensed contractor; the owner keeps the annual certificate current.

Good to know

DOB's boiler page and its fee schedule disagree on the annual certificate ($50 vs $33); confirm when you schedule. Post the certificate in the boiler room.

Official source

DOB: boiler inspections · DOB fee schedule (boilers)

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.