Optional Professional Certificate program

The Optional Professional Certificate program (OPCP) is an expedited commercial building permit application process where professional consultants accept responsibility for code compliance.

Program eligibility

Eligible commercial projects

• New construction
• Additions
• Renovations

OPCP applications require professional consultants for all scopes of work involved.

Not eligible for the program

• Buildings with:
  • Major occupancies classified as Group B1, B2, B3 and F1
  • Multiple Alternative Solutions

Program overview

OPCP applications do not undergo detailed structural, mechanical, electrical and building plan review.

The program requires professional consultants to submit certificates accepting responsibility and liability for:

• Construction drawings
• Evidence of adequate insurance

Some application submissions will be audited for code compliance after permit(s) are issued.

Program process

See the OPCP flowchart for more details about the process.

1. Request an eligibility review
   • Before requesting a project be processed under the OPCP, email the Commercial Plan Examination Administrator at ppd-bpx@winnipeg.ca to confirm eligibility.
2. Receive confirmation to proceed to a verification meeting
   • Written confirmation provided by the Commercial Plan Examination Administrator
3. Verification meeting
   • Present your project to the City to determine if it’s approved to submit an OPCP building permit application.
     • If approved, submit an OPCP building permit application.
     • If not approved, submit a regular building permit application.
4. Submit a building permit application online
   • Use Permits Online to submit the relevant application (Building Design Summary or Commercial Alteration Design Summary) and supporting documentation.
   • Applicable OPCP certificates executed by each professional of record must be included with the submission.
     • OPCP certificate for architectural, structural and mechanical
     • OPCP certificate for electrical
     • OPCP property owner(s) statement
5. Permit review and issuance
   • The target review time is five business days once a complete application is received.
     Note: Building permits must match prior development permit approvals or applications. The building permit will not be issued until the associated development permit is approved.
6. Audit
   • Some submissions are audited for code compliance after the permit is issued.

Professional responsibility

The OPCP places a higher level of responsibility on professionals.

If an audit or inspection identifies significant issues of non-compliance:

• The issues must be corrected
• The City may limit the professional’s future participation with the program

Questions?

Commercial Plan Examination Administrator
ppd-bpx@winnipeg.ca