Permits and planchecks are critical elements in the construction process, ensuring that your project meets all local, state, and federal requirements before, during, and after construction.
This category includes architectural approvals, building permits, specialized permits for different construction phases, and various agency planchecks that need to be obtained throughout your project lifecycle.
Some permits must be obtained sequentially, while others can be processed in parallel. Understanding the correct sequence is crucial for project scheduling.
Permit fees can vary significantly based on project size, location, and complexity. Budget for these costs early in the project planning.
Clearly define which team members or organizations are responsible for obtaining each permit to avoid delays and ensure accountability.
Failure to obtain required permits can result in fines, construction delays, or even legal action. Thoroughly review all requirements before starting construction.
| # | Permit/Plancheck Item | Description | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Architectural Planning Board Approval | Initial review and approval of architectural design by local planning authorities | 4-8 weeks |
| 2 | Filing Fee | Administrative fee for filing permit applications | Immediate |
| 3 | Planning Fee | Fee for planning department review | Immediate |
| 4 | Preliminary Soils Report | Assessment of soil conditions for foundation design | 2-3 weeks |
| 5 | Environmental Fee | Fee for environmental impact review | Immediate |
| 6 | Demolition Permit | Permission to demolish existing structures | 1-3 weeks |
| 7 | Building Department Permit and Plan Check | Main construction permit and review of construction plans | 4-12 weeks |
| 8 | Precise Grading Plan | Detailed plan for site grading | 2-4 weeks |
| 9 | Shoring Permit | Required for temporary support of structures during construction | 2-4 weeks |
| 10 | Grading Permit | Permission to alter land elevation and contours | 2-6 weeks |
| 11 | Foundation Permit | Specific permit for foundation construction | 2-4 weeks |
| 12 | Structural Frame Permit | Permit for structural framing work | 2-4 weeks |
| 13 | Public Improvements Permit | Required for work affecting public infrastructure | 4-8 weeks |
| 14 | OSHPD Plan Check and Permit | Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development review (for healthcare facilities) | 8-12 weeks |
| 15 | ODS Plancheck | Office of Design Services review | 4-6 weeks |
| 16 | ORS Plancheck | Office of Regulatory Services review | 4-6 weeks |
| 17 | Tenant Improvement Permit | Required for modifications to existing buildings for tenant use | 2-4 weeks |
| 18 | Department of Public Works Plancheck | Review by Public Works department | 3-6 weeks |
| 19 | Fire Marshall Plancheck | Review of fire safety measures and compliance | 2-4 weeks |
| 20 | Electrical Plancheck and Permit | Review and approval of electrical systems | 2-4 weeks |
| 21 | Mechanical Plancheck and Permit | Review and approval of mechanical systems | 2-4 weeks |
| 22 | Self-Regulating Agency Plan Check | Review by applicable self-regulating agencies | Varies |
| 23 | State Agency Plancheck | Review by relevant state agencies | 4-8 weeks |
| 24 | Unified School District Authority | Approval for projects affecting school districts | 3-6 weeks |
| 25 | Police Department Approval | Review for security and public safety considerations | 2-4 weeks |
| 26 | Core and Shell Permit | Permit for building exterior and structural elements before interior work | 3-6 weeks |
| 27 | OSHA Permits | Occupational Safety and Health Administration compliance | 2-4 weeks |
| 28 | Tie-back Easement | Permission for tie-backs that extend beyond property boundaries | 4-8 weeks |
| 29 | Encroachment Fee | Fee for encroaching on adjacent properties or public right-of-way | 2-4 weeks |
| 30 | Plan Check Expediting | Fee for accelerated plan review | Varies |