Yakima Starbucks Secures Rapid TI Plan Check Approval in 33 Days

Permit Place recently completed permit expediting services for Starbucks in Yakima, Washington, on behalf of CoolSys Light Commercial Solutions, LLC. The project involved a tenant improvement (TI) within a shopping center location, focusing on a like-for-like swap of an ice machine with a remote condenser. The project had an ASAP start date, so securing fast plan check approval from the City of Yakima Community Development Department was critical to keeping the schedule on track.

As part of the broader CoolSys program, this project required close coordination among the client, engineer, and local jurisdiction to maintain consistency with program standards while meeting local code requirements. Permit Place managed the submittal and review process from receipt of plans through final approval in only 33 days.

Challenges

This Yakima shopping center TI proceeded without major complications, thanks to thorough preparation and clear expectations set at project kickoff. By front-loading code research and jurisdictional requirements, the Permit Place team minimized surprises during review and kept the process smooth with the City of Yakima Community Development Department.

Solutions and Strategies

• Implemented the established Due Diligence process to verify submittal requirements for the mechanical equipment change-out.
• Confirmed documentation standards for the existing shopping center to ensure consistency with program specifications.
• Structured a clean, complete application package to avoid omissions or inconsistencies.
• Proactive communication:
  • Engaged plan reviewers early to clarify requirements.
  • Responded rapidly to minor clarification requests, avoiding resubmittals and extended review cycles.

Project Wins

• Achieved full plan check approval in just 33 days from receipt of plans.
• Enabled the client to proceed with the like-for-like equipment swap without disrupting broader rollout schedules.
• Demonstrated how disciplined permit expediting services, grounded in strong Due Diligence and proactive communication, keep even small-scope TIs aligned with aggressive construction timelines.