Association Weighs in on Dallas Permitting Delays
The onset of the pandemic has shifted nearly all aspects of life including building permitting and inspections in the City of Dallas. The health crisis expedited the city’s ongoing transition to and reliance on its new online permitting program. That transition has not gone smoothly.
In response to numerous frustrated inquiries from builders and homeowners, the Dallas BA has weighed in with recommendations on ways to improve the city’s processes and regulations. More than 20 specific recommendations addressing residential and commercial construction along with zoning and restaurant regulations will be provided to council members for consideration in the coming days. These include using third-party plan reviews and inspections, better documentation of city processes and contact information or key personnel.
“Some delays are expected and understandable; we are seeing that in several other cities,” said Dallas BA Executive Officer Phil Crone. “However, it has been particularly difficult in Dallas.” Crone added, “Much of what is needed now was needed prior to COVID-19, but the stakes are much higher. Unfortunately, the response before was essentially, if they only knew how good we were, they wouldn’t be asking us to get better.”
Crone said he’s optimistic that needed improvements can be made thanks to the coalition looking at this issue and the openness to change from senior management. “I believe the staff we are working with now including the Assistant City Manager and department director want to help our industry, their customers, have better success and I think that will translate down the ranks.”
Members having issues with permitting and inspections in the City of Dallas or elsewhere are encouraged to reach out to the Dallas BA. They can do so via email at info@dallasbuilders.com or 972-931-4840.