In 2023, Tallahassee, FL ranked as the #1 metropolitan area for economic strength in the United States. As Florida’s capital city, it is an attractive destination for businesses to grow and expand. However, while this is great news for the city and those who live there, obtaining commercial permits from the Tallahassee Building Department can be as challenging as anywhere else in the nation. Fortunately, we at Scout Services are here to help you out with this beginner’s guide to the commercial permitting process in Tallahassee.

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Key Players in the Tallahassee Building Department Permitting Process

When applying for commercial building permits through the Tallahassee Building Department. They are the ones who are responsible for reviewing all building plans and inspecting projects for compliance within the city of Tallahassee.

The Steps Involved in Obtaining Commercial Permits from the Tallahassee Building Department

Step 1: The Pre-Application Phase

The first step to applying for commercial building permits in Tallahassee is to gather all required materials and documents. As is the case throughout the country, the specifics will vary depending on the scope and type of your project. Alongside a land use approval and environmental permit, most new construction projects will require:

  • A signed and sealed site plan with proposed utilities and building footprint
  • Architectural drawings and MEP plans (amongst others)
  • An electrical riser diagram with details like requested service voltage
  • Proposed water lines

These are the minimum requirements for tenant improvements. Your Scout expediter will be able to tell you if any additional requirements apply to your project, and ensure your applications include these upfront.

Step 2: Submitting the Application

The Tallahassee Building Department provides an online service for permitting applications via their Permit Portal. One thing to note is that Tallahassee requires all application materials to adhere to their naming conventions, which can be found in their information sheets on their website.

It’s also important to remember that while the application platform Tallahassee uses may be familiar, the nuances of the application process itself will be unique to the municipality. Be sure to consult with your Scout Services permit expediter to ensure you’re submitting a complete and accurate application.

Step 3: The Review Phase

Next comes the review phase. In Tallahassee, the average review time for a standard project is 21 business days, while the average time for an expedited project may take only seven business days. Again, your Scout Services expediter will help you determine whether your project is eligible for a quicker review.

Keep in mind, however, that these times are only estimates. Some projects may move through review faster, while others may take longer. It all depends on the complexity and scope of your project. It’s essential to work with an experienced permitting expert to ensure your application moves through the process as quickly as possible.

Step 4: Addressing Comments and Re-Submittal

Nearly every application in every municipality comes back with comments, and Tallahassee is no exception. It’s important to address the comments as quickly as possible so you can resubmit your application for a second review. This ensures that your project makes it through the process — and that you receive your permits — as quickly as possible.

With a Scout Services permit expediter on your side, who can help you make the necessary corrections, you can keep your project on schedule and on budget.

Step 5: Approval and Permit Issuance

After your application has made it through all review processes and been approved, your permits will be issued! In Tallahassee, the applicant will be informed via email and you’ll be able to download your permits from the online portal.

FAQs

Q: How long is the review time in Tallahassee?

A: You can expect 21 business days for a standard review. However, for qualifying projects, the review time for expedited projects takes seven business days on average.

Q: Are there jurisdictional issues to be aware of?

A: Yes. Projects within the city limits fall under the jurisdiction of the City of Tallahassee. Anything outside of the city limits must go through Leon County. As the city of Tallahassee grows, it can be more difficult to determine where your project falls. A Scout Services permit expediter will be able to help you out with this.

Scout Services Expedites Permitting for Tallahassee Commercial Projects

At Scout Services, we have decades of experience in expediting building permits for commercial projects. We’re a nationwide expediter that helps architects, contractors, and other construction professionals obtain their permits in a timely manner, no matter the scope, location, or number of work sites.

Are you interested in partnering with an expediter that has the resources and the expertise to handle permitting on your behalf? Get in touch with us today and we’ll get back to you within 24 business hours.