Denver’s Progress Update Over Permitting Process

Addressing Denver’s Permitting Challenges

The City of Denver has long been grappling with a slow permitting process for construction projects, which has posed significant challenges for developers and homeowners alike. In a recent community conversation, city officials shared insights into the progress made in reducing these timelines. Denver Mayor Mike Johnston acknowledged the importance of improving customer service and transparency in permitting, offering a glimpse into the city’s evolving efforts to foster efficiency. On October 1st, 2024, a community meeting was hosted at the Glenarm Recreation Center to focus on the topic of Denver’s permitting process, its progress updates, and some other services the city provides. Alexander Edawards of the Denver Gazette reported the happenings and comments.

The Problem: Too much time and money in building permit process

For years, developers in Denver have struggled with permitting delays that could stretch out for years. One attendee at a public feedback session mentioned that prior to recent improvements, they would have been eager to express their frustration. The city’s permitting timeline, particularly for residential projects like single-family homes and duplexes, used to take far too long, which in turn caused setbacks for builders, investors, and homeowners. Mayor Johnston noted that despite a 34% reduction in the permitting timeline, many builders are still faced with a two-year wait before construction can begin. This delay leads to added costs and challenges in planning.

Progress Made: Key Improvements in the Process

The city’s efforts to improve the permitting process were clearly outlined at a meeting at the Glenarm Recreation Center. Denver officials proudly announced a 34% reduction in timelines for single-family home and duplex permits, and a 14% reduction for commercial projects. Additionally, they’ve cut the time required to add project comments by 29%, which allows for quicker adjustments and approvals by designers and architects.

While these improvements mark significant progress, both city officials and residents agree that more work is needed. For example, residents suggested expediting identical or similar projects to avoid redundant delays.

Sustainable Design Build is very familiar with the woes of lengthy permitting times here in Denver. Many of the residential construction projects that are taken on can quickly expand in scope which leads to a larger classification of project type within Denver’s Community Planning and Development department (Major Residential Construction), even a home remodel can easily tip over into the category of building permits and reviews that take a year or more to complete. Despite the past, the team members here at SDB are starting to see improvements from Denver officials, and are hopeful the 300+ days of plan review are in the past.

If one were interested in Denver’s current wait times for permitting, the City and County of Denver have a helpful resource that is located on their website. It can determine the average time from concept submissions to building permit approval for commercial and residential construction projects (minor, intermediate, and major).

Resident Feedback and Interviews

The community feedback offered a blend of praise and constructive criticism. A notable attendee mentioned that they had seen real improvements in the process in the last few years, contrasting it to a more frustrating experience four or five years ago. This sentiment highlights that the city’s reforms, though slow-moving, are producing tangible results.

However, residents voiced concerns about the lack of responsiveness in other city services, like Denver’s 311 system, which tracks issues related to violations and maintenance. For many, the lack of a feedback loop and transparency in the ticketing system remains frustrating, with some residents citing cases where reported problems remained unaddressed. They called for better tracking of issues and updates on resolutions.

SDB’s Expertise: Navigating the Permitting Process

At Sustainable Design Build, we have worked closely with the Denver Community and Development Department for nearly nine years. This long-standing partnership has allowed us to master the intricacies of Denver’s permitting process. With a track record of constructing accessory dwelling units (ADUs), home additions, pop tops, and whole home remodels, we know how to efficiently navigate the city’s evolving requirements.

The improvements in Denver’s permitting process directly align with our commitment to delivering projects on time and within budget. Our design-build process is designed to reduce complications, helping clients take advantage of the city’s progress in reducing permitting delays. By working with us, you not only get expert design and construction services, but also a partner who understands how to expedite the often-lengthy permitting process.

Conclusion: SDB, Your Guide Through Denver’s Evolving Permitting Landscape

As Denver continues to improve its permitting systems, Sustainable Design Build stands ready to leverage these changes for our clients’ benefit. Our years of experience working directly with the city’s department positions us to ensure that your project avoids unnecessary delays, saving you time, stress, and costs. Let SDB guide you through your next construction endeavor, making the most of the improvements in Denver’s permitting process while offering expertise tailored to your specific needs.