Understanding Public Works Permits

Posted on November 4, 2024November 4, 2024 by Jason Somers

If you’re getting ready to work on a construction or public improvement project, you may need a public works permit. These permits are usually required for any project that involves constructing, demolishing, or excavating public property or easements that the city owns. Each county or city can have different requirements for when people need to obtain a public works permit.

When you’re involved in a major infrastructure or construction project, you may need to obtain a public works permit before you can start working. For example, let’s say that your project requires you to move or build around existing utilities. You must have a public works permit for this type of project.

Building permits of any kind are required by city and county governments to ensure that renovation and construction projects are up to code. If a building isn’t up to code, it’s a danger to anyone who steps foot in it. Even though public works permits are necessary for many infrastructure and construction projects, they aren’t often approved expediently. Some cities have backlogs as well, which means that it can take months for your permit application to be approved.

If you need to apply for a public works permit before you can start working on your project, it’s highly recommended that you take advantage of the permit expediting process. A permit expediter is someone who helps clients ensure their projects remain on schedule.

Most expediters have close relationships with city officials, which should help you navigate the permitting process and avoid any unexpected delays. They can also identify issues with your application before you apply, which minimizes the potential for corrections. With the right permit expediter by your side, you can obtain your permit quickly. The following guide details what public works permits are and how to apply for them.

Types of Public Works Permits

The type of project you’re working on determines what public works permit you should apply for. Each permit comes with specific requirements that you’ll need to adhere to. For example, a construction permit gives you the legal right to begin construction. Whether you’re building a residential home or a government building, you’ll need to obtain this permit. They are often issued by local building departments.

The purpose of a construction permit is to make sure that the building is safe and stable for anyone who enters. It also ensures that your building plans are compliant with local laws and regulations. Depending on the scale of your project, you may need to obtain multiple public works permits. You must apply for construction permits if your project involves any of the following:

• Constructing curbs
• Manholes
• Sidewalks
• Driveways
• Gutters
• Catch basins
• Installing drain or sewer pipes
• Preparing sub-grade
• Paving

A demolition permit gives you the right to destroy large structures. Even if the structure was illegally built without a construction permit, you must still apply for a demolition permit before you destroy it. Keep in mind that each building you’re set to demolish requires a separate permit.

For example, let’s say that you’re getting rid of all buildings on a parcel of land. If the land consists of a detached garage, shed, and home, you must obtain three demolition permits. The same is true when you’re completing any public works project that requires demolition. The permit requirements can vary based on the county you’re in.

You may also need to obtain a utility permit for your project. If the project that you’re working on involves public utilities, you’ll likely require this permit. This work can be anything from installing telephone lines to connecting electric power.

Once you submit your construction drawings, the local planning officials will inform you of all permitting requirements. You can then apply for the permit. This application should be reviewed by your local utilities and infrastructure department. If your plans are up to code, you should receive approval.

The process of applying for a utility permit differs with each jurisdiction. In some locations, permitting will take around 90 days unless you have help from a permit expediter.

The Permit Application Process

The specific process of applying for a public works permit depends on the city you live in. These permits can be issued for any work that involves drainage systems, sidewalks, and sanitary sewers. Once you receive this type of permit, it should be valid for at least one year. However, most cities allow permit holders to request an extension before the current permit expires. This request usually needs to be submitted in writing.

You should be able to find a copy of a public works application on the local building department’s website. Before you apply, make sure you gather the necessary documentation. Permit applications usually come with a submission checklist that tells you which supporting documents you must include with the application. If you’re seeking a utility permit, you may need the following documents:

• General project notes
• Water and sewer documentation
• Geotechnical notes
• Paving and storm drain checklist
• Engineering plans

You can either complete your application online or submit it in person. The fee you pay alongside the application depends on the type of permit you’re requesting. A construction permit usually costs more than a utility one. Once your application is processed, it will need to be reviewed, which can take weeks or months.

The reviewer who’s assigned to your case will thoroughly evaluate all the documents you submit with your application. The initial review may be completed in just two to three weeks. There are, however, many issues that can complicate and delay this process. If the reviewer detects errors with your application, you may need to make corrections. The scope of the error determines how long it takes to fix it. Your application may need to be resubmitted altogether.

Once the city approves your permit application, you’ll still be tasked with scheduling inspections. Larger projects require numerous inspections to ensure that the work matches the original plans.

Numerous issues can arise during the permit application process. If you fail to pay the fees you owe, approval will be delayed. The same is true if your application is inaccurate or incomplete.

The Role of Permit Expediters

If you want to avoid lengthy and costly delays during the permitting process, it’s highly recommended that you hire a permit expediter. Permit expediting services are designed to streamline the application process. Regardless of the type of permit you’re applying for, you can use these services to significantly reduce the timeline associated with the approval process.

As touched upon previously, permit expediters know how to navigate the permitting process. Before you submit your application, they’ll review your documentation to ensure it’s up to code and meets the specific permitting requirements. Permit expediters can also anticipate problems while your application is being reviewed, which makes it easier to navigate them and avoid delays. If you have a strict project timeline that you need to meet, hire a permit expediter.

Factors Affecting Permit Approval

There are numerous factors that can affect permit approval. If you don’t submit the right documentation, your application will invariably be delayed. A simple mistake or issue with your application will likely result in a short delay while you correct the problem. However, major issues can cause the building department to deny applications altogether.

Before you apply for public works permits, review local regulations to make sure your project complies with them. To ensure a smoother approval process, submit every document that the application asks for. You can also speak with local officials before you apply to seek advice and make sure that everything’s in order.

Timeline for Obtaining a Public Works Permit

Each type of permit comes with a different timeline. For example, you can obtain a street opening permit within 10 business days depending on the county. In most cases, the timeline depends on the scope of the project. Use the following guide as a reference:

• Residential development projects: Four weeks for the initial review and another two weeks for any subsequent reviews
• Minor utility projects: Anywhere from one week to four weeks
• Major infrastructure projects: The review time for these projects can range from four weeks to more than a year

If the project involves more complex or unusual features, the review time might take longer. If the reviewer who’s assigned to your project doesn’t have experience with similar designs, the entire process could take several more weeks or months to be completed.

Conclusion

Public works permits are required for projects that involve construction work, demolitions, and utilities. Without this permit, the work you do is illegal, which comes with serious penalties that can include fees and jail time. You can speed up the permitting process by requesting expediting services. Seek professional help for efficient permit processing.