Quick answer
Minor work like a water heater or a small repair can be permitted the same day. Decks, remodels and small additions often take one to four weeks of review. New homes and larger projects commonly take several weeks to a few months in busy cities. Add time for preparing drawings and answering review comments.
Permit time is the part of a project owners plan for least and worry about most. The good news is that much of it is within your control.
Typical timelines by project type
- Over-the-counter permits (minor repairs, equipment replacements): same day to a few days
- Decks, fences, sheds and simple remodels: about one to three weeks in many jurisdictions
- Additions, garage conversions and ADUs: often two to eight weeks
- New homes: several weeks to a few months, longer in high-demand areas
- Commercial build-outs: varies widely with the number of reviewing disciplines
Your building department’s website usually lists its current review times, which change with workload.
Where the time actually goes
- Preparing drawings: from a few days for a deck to a few weeks for a house
- Intake: the department checks the package is complete
- Plan review: one or more reviewers check code compliance
- Comments and resubmittal: often the biggest delay, especially if responses are slow or incomplete
- Issuance: fees are paid and the permit is issued
Six ways to get your permit faster
- Submit a complete package the first time. Use the department’s checklist and our plan set checklist.
- Make drawings and calculations agree. Conflicts are a top reason for comments.
- Answer comments quickly and completely. See how to respond to plan review comments.
- Ask questions early. A pre-submittal meeting can settle unclear requirements before you draw.
- Use expedited options where offered. Some departments offer paid expedited review, and Florida allows licensed private providers to perform plan review and inspections.
- Do not start work early. Unpermitted work can bring stop-work orders that cost far more time than the review.
How Residential PE keeps your timeline short
Most residential review-and-stamp jobs are back in 48 to 72 hours, design packages carry a firm delivery date in writing, and we answer reviewer comments quickly at no extra charge. Send your plans for a fixed-fee quote.
Common questions
Why is my permit taking so long?
Most delays come from incomplete submittals, unanswered comments or high department workload. Check your application status online and ask the reviewer if anything is outstanding.
Can I pay to speed up a permit?
Some departments offer expedited review for a fee, and in Florida private providers can perform plan review. Availability depends on the jurisdiction.
How long is a building permit valid?
Usually for a set period, often around 180 days, if work starts and continues with regular inspections. Rules vary, and many departments grant extensions if you ask before expiry.
Can I start work while waiting for the permit?
No. Starting early risks fines, stop-work orders and having to open finished work for inspection.