Preparation, team work and making the most of the tips below are the secrets to getting your project through the commercial permit application process as quickly as possible.

1. Use pre-development conferences. While you're still in the conceptual stage, with your site identified and your first
consultant(s) on board, come in and talk to us. We can help identify challenges so you experience fewer surprises.

Depending on the schedule, it can take two-four weeks to book a conference. You can find information on pre-development conferences by clicking here.

2. Hire people who know their way around. Your project may need some or all of the following specialists: architects, contractors, civil, traffic or mechanical engineers, wetlands biologists, fire suppression contractors or others. Using specialists who are experienced with the Pierce County permitting process can achieve better results.

3. Keep in touch. Use your pre-development conference and contacts with our staff to understand the path your permit application will take, then track the application status on our Website. See #2 in Fast Permits section. When we review and return your plans with comments, confirm with the consultant when plans will be re-submitted. When the plans are with us, contact the reviewer to determine when your permit application will be reviewed.

4. Attend a Building & Fire meeting. For commercial applications, the Building Division and Fire Prevention Bureau will meet to discuss your project in greater detail. This typically happens prior to completion of the construction documents. To schedule a meeting, contact the Plans Examiner Supervisor at (253) 798-7218.