steps to getting permits for real estate development

🏗️ Step-by-Step: How to Get Permits for Real Estate Development

🧠 1. Understand the Types of Permits You’ll Need

Permit requirements vary by location and project scope. Common permits include:

📌 You may also need historic preservation, fire safety, or demolition permits depending on location.

📍 2. Confirm the Zoning Regulations

Start by checking local zoning laws to ensure your proposed project is legally allowed on the parcel.

• Visit your city or county’s zoning office or planning department

• Verify:

  • Land use type (residential, commercial, mixed-use)

  • Density limits (e.g., number of units per acre)

  • Setbacks, lot coverage, height restrictions

🛑 If your project doesn’t conform, you’ll need to apply for a:

• Zoning change

• Variance

• Conditional Use Permit

📐 3. Hire the Right Professionals

Permit submissions must often include detailed plans from licensed professionals:

• 🧱 Architect: Draws site and building plans

• 🧮 Civil Engineer: Grading, stormwater, utilities

• 📋 Surveyor: Provides certified land surveys

• 🧑‍⚖️ Permit Expediter (optional): Helps speed up and coordinate permits

🧠 Tip: Many cities reject incomplete or unprofessional plans. Hire people who know local codes.

🗂️ 4. Prepare and Submit Your Application

Most cities require:

• Completed permit application(s)

• Full construction drawings (site plan, floor plans, elevations)

• Soil and grading plans (for larger projects)

• Structural and MEP (mechanical/electrical/plumbing) plans

• Energy code and environmental documentation

• Permit fees (often based on project size)

🔁 Many jurisdictions now allow online submissions, but be prepared for multiple rounds of revisions.

🔍 5. Wait for Plan Review & Revisions

The planning and building department will:

• Review your plans against local codes

• Send back comments or required changes

• Coordinate with other departments (e.g., fire, public works)

🕒 This stage can take:

• 2–6 weeks for small residential

• 2–6+ months for large or commercial projects

✅ Stay responsive to requests to speed up the process.

📜 6. Secure Approval and Receive Permits

Once plans are approved, you’ll receive permits allowing you to:

• Start grading and foundation work

• Begin vertical construction

• Install utilities

🔧 Inspections will be required at various stages, so keep your permits on-site.

📅 7. Schedule Required Inspections

During construction, inspectors will verify code compliance at key stages:

• Foundation

• Framing

• Electrical/plumbing rough-ins

• Insulation

• Final inspection

✅ Pass all inspections to receive your Certificate of Occupancy (CO)—which allows you to sell or lease the property.

🧾 Typical Timeline for Permits

🧠 Pro Tips for a Smooth Permit Process

1. Meet with the city early (pre-application meeting)

2. Submit complete, code-compliant plans

3. Hire local professionals familiar with municipal codes

4. Don’t start work before permits are issued

5. Track inspection schedules and requirements

6. Keep all permit paperwork easily accessible on-site

✅ Summary: Permit Process for Real Estate Development