A case for permit shot clocks builds as approval durations drag out

The issue of permit approval delays has long been a pain point for construction projects, and new research suggests that it's not the construction process itself, but rather the approval process, that's driving much of the delay. By tracking 1.1 million permits over a 25-year period, researchers have found that the time it takes to get approval for a project is a major contributor to overall project timelines. This is a problem because delayed projects can lead to increased costs, lost productivity, and frustrated stakeholders.

The concept of permit shot clocks - or strict deadlines for permit approvals - has been gaining traction as a potential solution to this problem. The idea is that by imposing a strict timeline for approval, authorities can ensure that projects move forward in a timely manner, and that delays are minimized. This approach has been successful in some jurisdictions, and it's likely that we'll see more cities and states exploring the use of permit shot clocks in the coming years.

As the construction industry continues to navigate issues of project delays and increased costs, the use of permit shot clocks is likely to be a topic of growing interest. To watch next: will state or local governments begin to implement permit shot clocks more widely, and what impact will this have on construction project timelines and costs? Additionally, how will the construction industry adapt to these changes, and what best practices will emerge for navigating the permit approval process?

Originally reported by housingwire.com. ConstructionNews adds analysis for real estate & property readers.