DC Permit Solutions

If you’re a developer, general contractor, architect, or homeowner tackling a project in Washington, DC, the Department of Buildings (DOB) permitting process remains one of the critical — and sometimes challenging — parts of getting shovels in the ground.
Recent updates show progress:

• 96.7% of permit applications are assessed and assigned to a reviewer within 2 days of submission.

• First plan reviews are completed within 30 days for the vast majority of projects (97% compliance rate).

• The Accelerated Plan Review (APR) program continues to deliver faster turnaround for eligible projects through structured review sessions.
That said, overall timelines still vary significantly by project size, complexity, and involvement of other agencies (Zoning, Historic Preservation, DOEE, etc.). Larger commercial or mixed-use developments can still see multi-month processes, including revisions and inter-agency coordination.

Pro tips for smoother DC DOB processing:

• Use the official Plan Review and Permit Timelines (Service Level Agreements) to set realistic expectations based on your project’s square footage and scope.
• Prepare complete submissions upfront — missing info or incomplete checklists are common delay triggers.
• Consider the Accelerated Plan Review program for time-sensitive projects.

The DOB has been focusing on efficiency improvements, digital tools, and faster code adoption — all positive steps for keeping DC construction moving.

Have you processed and pulled permits with DOB recently??

I am here to help you and your team!

https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2022/01/07/dc-commercial-real-estate-2022-outlook

Market outlook for 2022. If you have any project please let me know. I am offering free consultations to discuss your project for 2022.

D.C. commercial real estate’s 2022 outlook D.C.’s office vacancy, which was a problem before the pandemic and has since gotten worse, reached a record high 18.4% at the end of 2021.

https://www.bisnow.com/national/news/office/office-owners-consider-more-expensive-upgrades-as-slow-return-to-work-continues-105642

Office Owners Consider More Expensive Upgrades As Slow Return To Work Continues Landlords are considering measures like HVAC upgrades, temperature checking stations, storage lockers and operable windows but the costs make them hesitant.