The “Love”-Hate Relationship with San Francisco’s Permitting Process
Embracing the Challenges
At Creates Cool, we’re involved in a diverse array of projects: new homes, high-rise multifamily buildings, numerous new commercial restaurants and retail spaces, and a plethora of residential remodels, both small and large. While we love the excitement and creativity these projects bring, navigating the San Francisco permitting process can often feel like a “love”-hate relationship.
Navigating the Permitting Process
In San Francisco, the permitting process is divided into two main types: Over-the-Counter (OTC) and Intake. While the new intake process aims to make things quicker and easier, it still comes with its own set of challenges. Each project, no matter our experience, faces unique issues because each reviewer brings their own perspective and interpretation to the table.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Projects
OTC projects are generally smaller in scale, involving all interior work or projects with minor planning implications. Here’s how the process works:
Submission: OTC projects are printed out and reviewed in person at the permitting office. This in-person review can take extra time.
Turnaround: Despite the initial time spent at the office, the overall process is relatively quick, with an average turnaround time of 1–2 weeks, including responding to comments.
Support: Our team handles all the necessary forms and in-person permitting, ensuring you don’t have to spend your time waiting to talk to reviewers.
Intake Projects
Intake projects are for larger undertakings and can be quite time-consuming:
Planning Phase: The planning alone can take up to four months, so be prepared for a lengthy review process.
Approval: Once the project is approved, the owner or contractor can pull the job card and pay the final fees. Ideally, the contractor pulls the job card to assume liability for work and safety on-site.
In-Person Steps: Like OTC projects, the final steps still happen in person at the permit office.
The New Intake Process
The new intake process introduced by SF Planning and SFDBI is designed to streamline project submissions and reviews. Here’s an updated look at how it works:
Digital Submissions: Larger projects are now submitted digitally, reducing the need for physical paperwork.
Initial Review: The initial review phase aims to be quicker, with more efficient communication between reviewers and applicants.
Feedback Loop: Applicants receive feedback more promptly, allowing for faster adjustments and resubmissions.
Each Project’s Unique Journey
Despite the improvements in the intake process, each project still faces its unique challenges. The interpretation of regulations can vary significantly from one reviewer to another, making the journey unpredictable. This variability keeps us on our toes, ensuring we approach each project with meticulous attention to detail and adaptability.
Celebrating Progress Amidst Challenges
While the permitting process can be frustrating at times, it’s also a crucial part of ensuring that our projects meet the highest standards of safety and quality. We embrace these challenges as part of our commitment to excellence.
At Creates Cool, we’re passionate about turning your vision into reality. Whether it’s a new home, a commercial space, or a residential remodel, we’re here to navigate the permitting process and bring your project to life. If you have an idea or a vision for a project in the Bay Area or beyond, we’d be thrilled to partner with you. Let’s collaborate and create something extraordinary together!
