Thinking of diving into a new construction project? Our comprehensive guide to obtaining a commercial building permit will help you avoid any setbacks along the way.

Are you thinking about starting a construction project on your commercial property? If so, it’s important to understand the process of acquiring a building permit. In this post, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to obtaining a permit for your business. Here’s what you need to know.

What is a Building Permit?

A building permit is a physical document issued by the local government or municipality that grants the applicant named on the permit permission to engage in building construction activity.

Why Do You Need a Building Permit?

Building Permits are required by local and state governments whenever one is engaging in a new building construction project or significant alteration to an existing building.

Permits serve an essential function, as they ensure that any permitted construction is done safely and lawfully. They also guarantee the project does not adversely affect surrounding properties or overspend the area’s infrastructure or resources.

How Does the Building Permit Process Work?

Your local building department begins by reviewing and approving construction plans. Before issuing building permits, they schedule periodic building inspections to ensure the project is planned and executed in compliance with local building codes and standards.

Permit processes are similar across municipalities and projects but differ in unique ways. There are also many different types of building permits, such as commercial or residential.

Before applying for a building permit, it is always a good idea to contact the building department and provide them with the project address so they can confirm that the property is within their jurisdiction.

This is also the appropriate time to ascertain applicant requirements.

Most building departments will only issue building permits to contractors who are licensed by the said building department.

Tips For Success When Applying For a Building Permit

When applying for a permit, you should acquire a permit packet that typically includes:

• A submittal checklist
• A building permit application
• A fee schedule

Most of today’s building departments have forms that are accessible from their websites and online portals to facilitate online submission. However, many will still maintain hard copies for pick up, and some may prefer that permit applications be made in person.

A typical building permit submittal consists of the following:

• Signed and sealed plans and specifications from a design professional.
• Building permit application completed by the licensed general contractor.
• The plan’s examination fee.

Most municipalities will require approval from their planning and zoning departments if the project scope involves exterior improvements. Additionally, if new utility services are in the project scope, most municipalities will also require approval from those respective jurisdictional agencies.

The best way to ascertain or screen the submission requirements is by filling in the required forms and applications.

How Long Does the Building Permit Process Take?

With a complete building permit submittal, the average time to complete the permit process and obtain a commercial building permit is 7 to 8 weeks.

The duration of the process can be affected by many things, including:

• Completeness of the permit submittal
• Size and scope of the project
• Size of the building department
• Quantity of applications coming in (first come-first serve)
• The thoroughness of the plans and specifications

Most state building codes are based on the International Building Code, which defines “reasonable time” to complete an initial plans examination as 30 calendar days.

After this initial review, the plans examiner may or may not have comments or questions for the design professional, which will be conveyed through a letter of correction. The final plan approval is issued once the concerns of the letter of correction are addressed to the satisfaction of the plans examiner.

Are There Fees Associated With Getting a Building Permit?

Once the letter of correction concerns are addressed, the building department will notify the applicant that the approved plans and building permits are ready for pick up and advise the building permit fee.

The building permit fee varies with the size of the project. A typical cost in Ohio would be calculated as Building Permit Fee = ($350 + 0.15 per SF) x 1.03). Some building departments will offer an expedited plan review option for a premium which could be as high as $1,500, in addition to the building permit fee.

Other fees could be associated with the building permit as well. Depending on the building’s zoning and use, additional fees may include:

• Inspection fees
• Zoning fees
• Utility fees
• Impact fees
• Capacity fees
• Environmental conservation fees
• Health department fees
• Subcontractor trade permit fees

Are Building Permits Required for All Construction Projects?

Building permits are not for all construction projects. Maintenance projects involving like-for-like replacement of fixtures or finishes would fall in this category. Before engaging in any sizeable construction endeavor, it is a good idea to inquire directly with the local building department whether or not they will require a permit.

This is much better than assuming that they will not require a permit and then having a building inspector find the project and stop the construction in progress! Fines and penalties for operating without a permit are significant to both owner and contractor. And contractors risk losing their licenses.

Final Thoughts

As a Design-Builder, Indecca has an excellent working relationship with many of the Building Departments within Central Ohio. When you partner with us, you can count on a timely plan review, positive inspection results, and a timely Certificate of Occupancy.