Navigating the Red Tape of Permitting

“I really dread applying for permits.” Sound familiar? Residents repeatedly share frustrations with our city’s permitting process, even for things that seem simple, like replacing a rotted front porch. I get it. When seeking a permit for my own business, it took 13 months and tens of thousands of dollars just to use some outdoor space for storage! And that project didn’t involve electrical, plumbing, or stormwater issues and wasn’t in a critical area. We removed one tree and replaced it with 16. So, believe me, I understand your frustrations. 

Our city’s process is too slow and rigid. But the good news is, I’ve met with our Planning and Zoning Director, and I’m impressed with the steps he’s taking to speed things up. It’s not going to change overnight, and we need significant changes in our city code, but we’re moving in the right direction. My vision:

• Proactive planning with community input to provide paths for fast-track approvals. It’s wise to consider smaller city sectors to look at land use, infrastructure, and community preferences and then develop plans that incorporate feedback from residents. Then, investors can get accelerated approval if their proposal aligns with the city’s proactive plan. This approach makes private investment more attractive, eliminates uncertainty and delays, increases investments into infrastructure, and helps the city deliver the improvements that the community seeks.

• Pre-approved templates for common types of permit applications. Let’s expedite the permitting process by having templates for routine, low-risk projects like fences, decks, porches, and garages. Approval time shrinks to only a day or two for those who submit a plan that matches a template.

• A customer-service culture in which staff guide you toward your goals. It’s tough to hear “no” and struggle to figure things out on your own. Via training and employee collaboration, let’s change expectations so applicants look forward to a smooth experience and a greeting of, “How can I help?”

We can have high standards without unnecessary hurdles in our permitting process, and that’s what I’m committed to achieving.

Warm regards,

Jared

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