Alabama Administrative Code
Title 485 - ALABAMA STATE BOARD OF REGISTRATION FOR INTERIOR DESIGN
Chapter 485-X-7 - COMPLAINTS AND VIOLATIONS
Section 485-X-7-.06 - Unlicensed Practice Of Interior Design

(1) If the Board determines that an individual not issued a Certificate of Registration or Authorization as a registered interior designer or who has not been granted an exemption by the Board is engaged in the practice of interior design, the Board shall issue a written notice to cease and desist from such violation by certified mail and addressed to the last known place of business or residence of the individual. The Board shall issue written notice to cease and desist to an individual who aids and abets the unlicensed practice of interior design. All notices shall be sent certified mail with a return receipt requested.

(2) A request for a written response from the respondent is required within fifteen (15) working days of date of the notice to cease and desist. If a written response is not received from the respondent within the designated time period, the Deputy Attorney General Designee or other individual designated by the Chairman shall issue a second notice to the respondent. A written response from the respondent is required within fifteen (15) working days of date of the second notice. If a written response is not received from the respondent within the designated time period, the Deputy Attorney General Designee or other individual designated by the Chairman shall issue a final notice to the respondent. A written response from the respondent is required within fifteen (15) working days of date of the final notice. All notices shall be sent certified mail with a return receipt requested.

(3) The failure to submit a written response to notices from the Board without good cause shall be deemed an admission of guilt by the respondent and the Board shall take further action against the respondent. The Board may at its sole discretion publish such disciplinary action or its findings in a newspaper of general circulation in the state of Alabama.

(4) Each day that the unlicensed individual continues the practice of interior design after issuance of a notice to cease and desist constitutes a separate violation.

(5) An individual who engages in the practice of interior design without possessing a Certificate of Registration or Authorization as a registered interior designer shall be guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. The Board may impose fines and penalties pursuant to state law. If the Board is required to seek enforcement of the order for a penalty, it shall be entitled to collect its attorneys' fee and costs, together with any costs of collection.

Author: Alabama State Board of Registration for Interior Design