The Client is responsible for preparing, submitting, tracking, and remitting payment for all permits to the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ).

Permit management assistance can be provided upon request if additional support is needed.

Communications with the AHJ may result in supplementary fees, unless otherwise specified in the Service Fee Estimate.

Please note that this service does not include permit expediting. If expedited processing is required, we recommend engaging a Plan Expeditor.

Printed or shipped plans will be invoiced according to the Client’s requests; please refer to the Terms and Conditions for information regarding potential additional charges.

Upon receipt of plan review comments, these must be forwarded via email directly to your designated Project Manager (PM) for resolution of any required revisions.

Necessary revisions resulting from plan review will be addressed, and updated documents will be provided for your printing and subsequent re-submission, as needed.

Once permit approval is granted, you may proceed to obtain the permit and commence construction activities.

Please allow an estimated 2–8 weeks for review by the local authority.

A G.C. should submit plans for Building Permits, as local authorities may require their approval.

Additional permits may be needed for projects, including health, agricultural, road commission, or soil erosion permits. We are available to assist clients who require help.

The Client may need to attend Municipal meetings for Local Approval. We can accompany the Client if assistance is required.

Projects involving changes of use, site reconfiguration, new buildings, additions, or exterior renovations typically require some level of Planning Approval, which may include Site Plan Approval (SPA), Special Land Use (SLU), and Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) approval.

Consultation with the local zoning ordinance or planner is necessary to navigate the Site Plan/Special Use Approval process.

Most projects that impact the site will require the expertise of a civil engineer.

The approval process varies depending on the local authorities and may involve requirements for site engineering, time, and associated fees.

Please allow approximately 3–9 months for planning meetings and approvals, based on the timeline established by the local authority.

Clients or landowners are responsible for permit fees.

Obtaining permits is a vital component in initiating any construction project, but determining who is responsible for submitting these documents can be nuanced. It is a common misconception that architects are always tasked with permit submission; however, this is not necessarily accurate.

Architect’s Role

Architects are primarily responsible for designing buildings and ensuring all plans adhere to applicable codes and regulations. They typically prepare the necessary documentation and drawings required for permitting. However, their core expertise lies in design and regulatory compliance rather than managing the approval process.

Plan Expeditor’s Role

Plan Expeditors possess specialized knowledge of the permitting process. Their responsibilities include organizing paperwork, tracking application progress, and liaising with municipal authorities to facilitate timely approvals. While architects provide the technical plans, expeditors ensure these submissions are processed efficiently.

Key Distinctions

·       Architect: Designs and prepares permit documentation.

·       Plan Expeditor: Manages submission, monitors progress, and addresses issues to expedite permit approval.

Employing both professionals can optimize workflow and minimize delays—architects concentrate on achieving design quality, while expeditors help maintain project timelines by streamlining the permitting process.tion goes here