State Licensing for Architects
The Mississippi State Board of Architecture (MSBOA) is responsible for the examination and licensure of architects and the regulation of the profession in Mississippi. MSBOA is a state agency enacted during the 1930 legislative session, and by law is charged to safeguard life, health and property of the public.
MSBOA consists of five architects appointed by the governor, and is supported by full-time and contractual staff. MSBOA provides a complete and thorough registration process for architects and sets standards for practice and conduct. The Board is also responsible for investigating and disciplining unauthorized incompetent and unethical architectural practice.
Those interested in learning more about Mississippi licensure and architectural practice requirements should visit MSBOA’s website. This site contains the regulatory law and rules, a searchable database of licensed architects, application forms, a complaint form, and newsletters.
What are the requirements for licensure?
Licensure requirements are set forth in the Mississippi Architectural Practice Act (Sections 73-1-13 and 73-1-21) and are further detailed in Chapters I and II of the MSBOA Rules and Regulations. Qualified individuals can apply via an online application process. An NCARB record is required.
When is an Architect Required?
In Mississippi, any person providing or advertising architectural services, using the title "architect," or holding himself/herself out as capable of providing architectural services must be licensed by MSBOA.
Architectural plans for the construction or alteration of commercial type structures (businesses, schools, churches, etc.,) that measure 5,000 or more square feet or 3 or more stories in height must be prepared by a licensed architect in accordance with Miss. Code Ann. §73-1-39(h). One-family and two-family homes and farm buildings may be designed by a draftsman or designer (rather than an architect).
License Renewal and Continuing Education
Architects must renew their Mississippi license every two years. Renewals are due by November 30 of odd calendar years. In order to renew a license in Mississippi, architects must acquire 24 continuing education credits over a prescribed two-year reporting period. All CEUs must be related to protecting the health, safety and/or welfare of the public. MSBOA will allow up to 8 self-directed CEUs, but at least 16 CEUs must be from structured activities. For more on mandatory continuing education, including exemptions, review chapter VI of the MSBOA Rules and Regulations.
Complaints
MSBOA is authorized to regulate, enforce and investigate alleged violations of its statutes and rules by architects and non-architects. Any person may prefer charges against any other person for committing any of the acts set forth in Section 73-1-29 of the Mississippi Architectural Practice Act or the MSBOA Rules and Regulations. Charges may be made upon actual knowledge, or upon information and belief, and should be filed in writing.
For more information, contact the Mississippi Board of Architecture:
Mississippi State Board of Architecture
Jenny Wilkinson, Executive Director
2 Professional Parkway #2B
Ridgeland, MS 39157
www.archbd.state.ms.us
TEL: 601-856-4652
FAX: 601-856-1510
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