Definitions

For purposes of this Subpart, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly requires a different definition: (1) "Building" means any structure designed or built for the support, enclosure, shelter, or protection of persons, animals, chattels, or property of any kind, including any part or component of such a structure. (2) "Building code" means any building, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, fire prevention, or other regulatory code or ordinance adopted by a political subdivision which establishes minimum standards for the use, occupancy, design, planning, engineering, construction, alteration, installation, repair, maintenance, location, removal, or demolition of any building, structure, or improvement to immovable property or for the quality of materials or equipment used in connection therewith. (3) "Construction" means performance of any work, rendering of services, furnishing of labor or materials, or controlling, using, operating, or installing equipment by any person in connection with the design, planning, engineering, construction, erection, alteration, installation, repair, maintenance, location, removal, or demolition of any building, structure, or improvement to immovable property, including but not limited to land surveying, landscaping, excavation, or other services preparatory thereto and any undertaking by any person to supervise, superintend, inspect, observe, oversee, direct, or in any manner assume charge thereof. (4) "Enforcement agency" means the agency or other governmental entity with authority to issue permits, make inspections of buildings, and otherwise enforce building codes or perform enforcement procedures. (5) "Enforcement procedure" means any act, action, or failure to take action by a public servant or enforcement agency in connection with the implementation of any provision of a building code, including but not limited to the examination or review of any plan, drawing, or specifications, the conducting or completion of any inspection, the issuance, denial, or revocation of any permit, permission, license, or certificate, and the granting of any approval of construction. (6) "Governmental entity" means any department, office, division, agency, commission, board, committee, or other organizational unit of a political subdivision. (7) "Improvement" means any permanent alteration, addition, embellishment, or betterment of immovable property or any modification of land by man, including but not limited to roads, pipelines, sewerage facilities, grating, drainage facilities, levees, or other flood control facilities. (8) "Person" means any natural person, individual, firm, joint venture, partnership, corporation, association, other legal entity, or group thereof other than a political subdivision, governmental entity, or public servant performing official duties. (9) "Political subdivision" means any parish or municipality which has authority to adopt and enforce a building code pursuant to this Part, R.S. 33:1236, any other general or special law, any charter or home rule plan of government, or any other authority or grant of power. (10) "Public servant" means any elected or appointed official or any public employee of a political subdivision or governmental entity. (11) "Structure" means anything constructed or erected, the use of which requires a location on the ground or which is attached to something having a location on the ground.