The Mississippi State Board of Architecture has significant updates to its regulations governing the practice of architecture. Adopted in May 2024 and effective as of November 9, 2024, the changes aim to modernize architectural practice, while strengthening professional oversight. The updates address licensure requirements, continuing education, practice standards, and firm registration, all of which are essential for architects licensed in Mississippi.
The revised licensure requirements streamline the process for new applicants and those seeking renewal by enhancing documentation standards and clarifying the qualifications needed. This includes more explicit guidelines on educational credentials and verification of experience. For architects licensed in other states, the updates simplify reciprocity procedures, making it easier to expand their practice into Mississippi.
As it relates to continuing education, the changes underscore the importance of ongoing professional development. Architects must now complete an increased number of annual continuing education hours, with a focus on health, safety, and welfare topics. This adjustment aims to ensure architects remain well-equipped to address critical issues affecting public interests.
Another notable change eliminates the application/registration fee for Mississippi residents seeking initial registration, reducing barriers to entry for new professionals in the state. The rules formalize the process for non-resident architects to serve as consultants, allowing out-of-state professionals to contribute expertise while maintaining Mississippi oversight through required “responsible control” by state-registered architects.
The most important update is to the area of construction administration. Construction administration requirements have also been strengthened, with the Board now requiring notification if an architect is not providing these services. This change enhances project oversight by ensuring all relevant parties, including the Board itself, are informed when construction administration is not part of the architect’s scope, and makes construction administration the default responsibility of the architect. Additionally, the revised rules emphasize the importance of accurate and comprehensive project documentation, enhancing accountability and compliance with legal requirements.
It is important for architects to keep abreast of changes to licensing and renewal requirements. It is also important they understand the presumptions the regulations may create, such as the default position that architects will provide construction administration services. Architects could accidentally take on liability associated with administration, simply by not notifying others that the service was not being provided.