COURTLAND—On Nov. 6 the Southampton County Department of Community Development (Building and Zoning) will present a seminar on construction, plans and zoning codes and regulations.

The seminar will be held in the Southampton County Conference Building, 24283 Old Bridge Road,at 9 a.m.

“This has become an annual seminar, where many of our local builders and contractors find solutions for new changes in the building code,” said Robert Barnett, director of Community Development.

“We discuss problems and make suggestions to help contractors comply with the new building code. This year we will have a representative from Simpson Strong Tie to demonstrate how their products can help solve construction problems,” continued Barnett.

Lee Copeland will discuss the plan review process including new interpretations from the Uniform Statewide Building Code of Virginia, on wall and foundation bracing in the 100 mph wind zone.

Andy Johnson will cover all of the building trades, electrical, mechanical and plumbing, including the new requirement for energy efficient calculation.

John Jenkins will talk about the requirements for submitting an application package and how to speed up the process of obtaining building, zoning, erosion and sediment control/storm water management permits.

“Each attendee will receive a certificate, and we are working with the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulations, governing contractor licensing, to have the course earn Continuous Education Units, now required for contractors,” stated Inspector Copeland. “The complete course will be submitted and the state will make a decision in December.”

“We will use the registration process to obtain the e-mail addresses for our contractors so we can notify them of changes in the code and holiday schedules, office closing and any other vital information they may need,” added John Jenkins.

A $12 administration fee will be charged to offset the cost of a box lunch and seminar materials. Registration for the seminar must be made by Nov. 3, at the Department of Community Development, 22305 Administration Drive, Courtland, Va. (the corner of Main Street and Administration Drive).