What Twitter Should Have Known About San Francisco Permitting
On Monday, officials from the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (DBI) observed the removal of a new illuminated sign, shaped as an “X”, from the building previously recognized as Twitter’s headquarters. Twitter was recently rebranded as X, but then not, but sort of still is … the saga is a bit hard to follow. […]
What You’ll Need for a EV Charging Permit in California
The following is an excerpt from our Guide to California EV Charging Station Permitting Guide. Download it here. The State of California recently adopted two bills to help streamline the electric vehicle charging station (EVCS) permit approval process. Specifically, Assembly Bill 1236: Requires all California cities and counties to develop an expedited, streamlined permitting process […]
Building Permit Status Definitions
Here’s a list of the most common building permit statuses, their definitions, and the associated responsibilities: 1. Application Submitted Definition: The initial step where the applicant submits the building permit application, including plans and required documentation. Owner: Applicant Responsibilities: Complete and submit all required forms. Provide accurate and detailed plans and documentation. Pay any initial […]
Where Can I Find Building Code Information?
Building codes are essential guidelines that provide the minimum requirements for designing, constructing, and maintaining buildings. They ensure that structures are safe, functional, and comply with local regulations. However, building codes are adopted at the state, county, and city levels, meaning no one code applies to all properties. In addition, how and where these […]
Permit Term and Acronym Definitions
As you go through the permitting process, industry professionals and plan review personnel may throw some terms or acronyms your way. You must understand what each means because miscommunications lead to project delays. Below we’ve listed the most common terms you’ll encounter throughout the permitting process and their definitions. Appointment Plan Check (APC): An APC […]
How Long Does a San Jose Building Permit Approval Take?
The time between the San Jose building permit application submittal and approval is a critical detail commercial construction projects need to plan around. In San Jose, California, permit approval times can be as short as 10 weeks or 40+ weeks, depending on several factors. The City of San Jose Building Division offers this approximate plan […]
Should I Use Local Architects to Manage My Permits?
Local architects play a critical role in any commercial construction project. They are experts in local building codes and design and are essential in the permit approval process. But should a local architect manage your project’s building permit application? They can, but we believe there is a better option. The odds of a commercial construction […]
5 Strategies for Fast Permit Approvals
Like many businesses, city and county planning departments throughout the country have struggled during the pandemic. Over that span, their professionals have experienced layoffs, furloughs, early retirement offers and reduced work hours. Fast permit approvals and reviews have slowed considerably. And, while things have gotten better, limited staff combined with a backlog of applications means […]
What are Building Codes?
A building code is a set of rules that specify the minimum acceptable level of safety for a building or non-building structure. Building codes ensure that all buildings, including residential, commercial and industrial properties, meet certain structural integrity and safety levels. These codes protect the occupants of a building as well as those who […]
How to Get a Sign Permit
Obtaining a sign permit is essential to ensure your signage complies with local regulations and safety standards. The process generally involves the following steps: 1. Research Local Sign Regulations Begin by understanding the specific sign ordinances and zoning laws in your area. These regulations dictate permissible sign types, sizes, placements, and lighting. Consult your […]