What is your building permit turn-around time?

dollyachie

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We usually tell our customers 2-3 weeks for the first review. I've heard that is pretty timely compared to some jurisdictions but i'm curious how it is in other jurisdictions because we *still* get customer complaints about how long it takes to receive their approved permit.
 
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If I applied for a permit to renovate my carport and had to wait two weeks, I'd probably feel frustrated. I understand that bigger projects take longer to approve.

As customers, we don't know how many applications each staff member has to handle. We hear stories of other areas processing the permits quickly, so we build our own expectations.
 
We routinely take 2 weeks for simple projects while more complicated projects may take 3-4 weeks. I instruct my staff to be upfront at the beginning of a project regarding review times so the customer isn't calling us out of frustration after one week.
 
We routinely take 2 weeks for simple projects while more complicated projects may take 3-4 weeks. I instruct my staff to be upfront at the beginning of a project regarding review times so the customer isn't calling us out of frustration after one week.
That's great! Maybe add some extra info about the next steps so they understand why their submission takes time to approve.

If the office has a website, what do you think about displaying the number of processed requests? I'm not sure if sharing that information is against the codes, but it may help people understand the workload and wait more patiently.
 
It can be anywhere from three to six weeks around here. I think it's amazing that some of you manage a short turnaround time of two weeks. I hope it's appreciated in your neck of the woods.
 
Average of 10 business days for residential, average of 15 business days for commercial!
 
For the customers in my department, it depends but if it’s a residential permit it takes up to 1-2 weeks and if it’s more of a commercial permit then it could take up to 3-4 weeks. It is pretty efficient and fast on our end.
 
Our initial review is currently about 2 days on residential and 4 days on commercial, resubmittals are 1-2 days in Baton Rouge LA
 
We usually tell our customers 2-3 weeks for the first review. I've heard that is pretty timely compared to some jurisdictions but i'm curious how it is in other jurisdictions because we *still* get customer complaints about how long it takes to receive their approved permit.
It's understandable that customers can be impatient, especially when it comes to permitting processes. While a 2-3 week turnaround time is relatively quick, there are several factors that can influence permit review times, such as:

Complexity of the Project: Larger or more complex projects may require additional review and analysis.
Staffing Levels at the Permitting Agency: Understaffed agencies may experience longer processing times.
Specific Requirements and Regulations: Local building codes and zoning ordinances can vary widely and impact review times.
Seasonal Variations: Certain times of the year may be busier for permitting agencies, leading to longer wait times.

To address these issues, you might consider the following strategies:

Proactive Communication
: Keep your clients informed about the status of their permit applications and any potential delays.
Streamline the Application Process: Ensure that your applications are complete and accurate to avoid delays.
Build Relationships with Permitting Officials: Developing strong relationships with local officials can help expedite the review process.
Consider Electronic Submittal: Many jurisdictions now accept electronic submissions, which can speed up the review process.

It's also important to manage client expectations and explain the factors that can influence permit review times. By providing clear communication and proactive updates, you can help mitigate frustration and maintain positive relationships with your clients.

Have you tried any specific strategies to expedite the permitting process?
 
6-8 weeks here for building permits.
Our plans reviewer is also our building official, inspector, and fire marshal, so most people give grace.
 
8-10 weeks for minor permits, 14-16 weeks for major permits. Not including time for comments/additional review rounds. Full timeline estimates for all permits found here.
 
Over the counter permits are processed within 24-48 hours. All others are told 2-3 weeks for review, which we always get push back on but other local jurisdictions are taking longer.
 
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