How Long Does It Take to Get a Building Permit?

Getting a building permit might not be the most exciting part of your project, but it’s one of the most important. Whether you’re building a new warehouse, adding office space, or upgrading storage equipment, the permit process can make or break your timeline.

That’s because permitting delays can:

• Slow down construction
• Drive up costs
• Create logistical headaches

Depending on your project’s size and complexity, approval times can range from a few days (if all goes well) to several months (if you run into delays). However, I’ve been doing this for a long time, so I have pretty good data to give you an idea of how long it actually takes to get a building permit:

Every city is different, of course. But in most cases, any permit I file will take three to six weeks. And I like to use four weeks as a rule of thumb. But keep in mind that it’s highly dependent on the city — this past December, I had a permit that took five days for approval in Georgia.

The East Coast Storage Equipment team happily assists customers with permitting when we take on facility design and equipment installation jobs. In this guide, I share our years of knowledge so you can see what affects permit approval timelines, typical wait times for different projects, and how to speed up the process to keep your project on track.

Understanding the Building Permit Process

Before breaking ground on a construction project, you need approval from your local government in the form of a building permit. This official document makes sure your project meets safety codes, zoning laws, and environmental regulations. Without it, you could face fines, work stoppages, or even legal issues.

Building permits are meant to protect both property owners and the public. Thanks to permitting systems, structures: 

• Are built safely
• Comply with zoning rules
• Meet structural integrity standards

And keep this in mind: Even minor modifications, such as installing new storage systems or modifying warehouse layouts, may require approval.

There are several types of permits, depending on the scope of work. Common categories include the following:

• Structural permits. Required for new builds, expansions, or major renovations.
• Electrical permits. Covers wiring, lighting, and power systems.
• Mechanical permits. Needed for HVAC, ventilation, and other mechanical systems.
• Plumbing permits. Required for changes to water and sewer lines.
• Occupancy permits. Confirms that a space is safe and ready for use.
• Special-use permits. Needed for projects that don’t fit standard zoning regulations.

Understanding which permits apply to your project is the first step in estimating how long the approval process will take.

How Long Does It Take? Factors That Affect Approval

The time it takes to get a building permit varies widely and depends on several factors. While some projects may receive approval in just a few days, others can take weeks or even months. 

Understanding what influences the approval timeline can help you plan accordingly. Here are some factors to consider:

Project Complexity

The more extensive the project, the longer the approval process. A simple warehouse racking installation might be approved within a few days. Meanwhile, a full-scale facility expansion could take months.

Location and Jurisdiction

Each city, county, and state can have its own permitting process. Some jurisdictions have streamlined digital applications, while others make you do in-person submissions and multiple reviews.

Permit Office Workload

If your local permitting office is dealing with high demand or is understaffed, expect longer wait times. Larger cities often have a backlog of applications, which can really slow things down.

Compliance with Regulations

Submitting incomplete applications or failing to meet code requirements can lead to delays. Each rejected submission adds more time — you have to make corrections and resubmit, and that can take more time than you realize.

Public Hearings & Environmental Impact Assessments

If your project affects zoning laws, traffic patterns, or environmental factors, it may require a public hearing or environmental review. This is a kind of a worst-case scenario for your building permit timeline because these extra steps can extend the approval process by several months.

Typical Time Frames for Different Permits

The time required to obtain a building permit depends heavily on the type of project and the complexity of the work. Here’s a general breakdown of typical permit approval times:

• Minor repairs and simple renovations. If you’re making non-structural changes, such as installing shelving or upgrading lighting, approval may take one or two business days. Some jurisdictions even offer same-day approvals for straightforward applications.
• Residential construction (home additions, remodels, etc.). Adding a room, renovating a kitchen, or making other structural modifications often takes one to four weeks for approval, depending on the scope of work and local regulations.
• Commercial and industrial projects. Warehouse expansions, office remodels, or structural racking installations often require more scrutiny. Expect four weeks to six months for approval, particularly if structural engineering reviews are required.
• Special use and large-scale developments. If your project involves zoning changes, environmental reviews, or community hearings, the process can take six to 12 months or more. Large-scale commercial developments, mixed-use projects, or hazardous material storage facilities often fall into this category.

This is just a general guideline. Actual approval times vary based on jurisdiction and project specifics. It’s always a good idea to check with your local permitting office early in the planning process to avoid surprises.

How to Speed Up the Building Permit Process

Getting a building permit can take time, but you can speed up the process and avoid unnecessary delays. Here are a few good ideas for you:

Do Your Research First

Before submitting your application, review your local building codes and zoning requirements. Some jurisdictions have specific rules that could impact your timeline. Knowing these in advance helps you avoid costly revisions.

Before submitting your application, review your local building codes and zoning requirements. Some jurisdictions have specific rules that could impact your timeline.

Plan Ahead

The more you plan ahead, the more you can avoid obstacles that slow down the building permit process.

For example, high-piled storage permits — which are common in the warehousing industry — are usually required before a building permit can be issued. If you wait until you’re ready to file your building permit application to check whether you need a high-piled storage permit, you may be looking at an unnecessary delay.

Prepare a Complete and Accurate Application

Missing documents, incomplete plans, or incorrect information can result in delays or outright rejections. Double-check that all paperwork is filled out correctly and includes key details like blueprints, site plans, and structural calculations.

Work With Professionals

Hiring an architect, engineer, or permit expediter can help you navigate complicated regulations. These professionals understand how to format plans properly and anticipate potential roadblocks. And that gives you a better chance of a smooth approval.

Use Online Submissions (If Available)

Many cities and counties offer electronic permit submissions. Our team has certainly seen that these tend to get processed faster than paper applications. Check if your jurisdiction provides this option to reduce waiting time.

Follow Up Regularly

Once you’ve submitted your application, don’t just wait for a response. Stay in touch with the permitting office, ask about expected timelines, and be ready to provide additional information if needed.

What to Do If Your Permit Is Delayed

Even when you do everything right, permit delays can still happen. Here’s what you need to know if your permit is delayed:

• Common causes of delays. The most frequent issues include missing or incomplete documents, zoning conflicts, code violations, or a backlog at the permitting office. If your project needs special approvals, like environmental impact assessments, it may take even longer.
• How to address issues. If you receive a request for additional information, respond as quickly as possible. Resubmit any missing paperwork, clarify details in your application, and, if it’s an option, ask for an expedited review. A permit expediter or legal professional can also help move things along.
• Appealing a denied permit. If your permit is denied, don’t panic. Many jurisdictions allow you to appeal the decision or make modifications to meet requirements. Read the rejection notice carefully and work with an expert to adjust your application accordingly.

Need Permitting Help for Your Warehouse?

Building permits are a necessary part of pretty much any warehouse construction or renovation project, but they don’t have to cause headaches for you. While delays can and do happen, planning ahead and understanding the process can reduce waiting periods by a lot.

Start by researching local permit requirements and talking with officials early. A solid application, combined with professional guidance, can save you time, money, and frustration.

If you’re planning a warehouse or facility upgrade that requires permitting, East Coast Storage Equipment is here to help. Contact us online or call us at 888.294.5022 today for expert advice on material handling solutions and compliance considerations.