Objective:
To streamline and modernize Jacksonville’s building permitting process to ensure that all permits are processed within 90 days or less, supporting responsible development, economic growth, and community revitalization.
Key Actions
1. Digital Transformation of Permitting
- Implement a fully digital permitting platform that enables online submission, tracking, and review of all building permit applications.
- Allow concurrent review by all relevant departments (Planning, Zoning, Environmental, Fire Safety, etc.) to eliminate bottlenecks caused by sequential workflows.
2. Creation of a “Fast-Track” Review Option
- Launch an optional Fast-Track Permit Program for projects that meet pre-defined criteria (e.g., affordable housing, commercial revitalization, infill development).
- Applicants can opt-in to a premium expedited service for guaranteed faster processing.
3. Staffing & Training Investment
- Increase staffing in key permitting departments through strategic hires or contracting experienced third-party reviewers.
- Cross-train staff to perform multi-disciplinary reviews, ensuring flexibility and faster response times during peak periods.
4. Standardized, Pre-Approved Plans
- Develop and offer pre-approved architectural and structural plans for common building types (e.g., duplexes, small businesses) that can bypass detailed review.
- Partner with local builders and architects to ensure practicality and code compliance.
5. Public-Private Partnerships for Permitting Support
- Engage private-sector professionals to assist with backlog reduction and permit prep services for applicants, particularly small businesses and community developers.
6. Transparent Tracking & Accountability
- Launch a Public Permit Tracker accessible online, showing real-time status updates on all submitted applications.
- Publish quarterly performance dashboards to measure average processing times by department and hold agencies accountable to the 90-day goal.
7. Customer Support & Communication
- Establish a dedicated Permitting Help Desk for technical assistance and real-time permit status inquiries.
- Assign case managers for large or complex projects to coordinate between departments and the applicant.
8. Performance Incentives
- Introduce performance-based incentives for departments and staff that consistently meet or exceed the 90-day turnaround goal.
- Celebrate top performers and departments with public recognition and internal awards.
Implementation Timeline
- Phase 1 (First 100 Days): Technology upgrade scoping, hiring plan, formation of task force.
- Phase 2 (6 Months): Platform launch, staff training, Fast-Track & template programs activated.
- Phase 3 (1 Year): Full adoption of 90-Day Permit Promise across all permit types.
Expected Outcomes
- Cut average permit time by over 50%.
- Encourage investment in Jacksonville’s neighborhoods and commercial corridors.
- Increase transparency and trust in city government.
- Make Jacksonville a model city for pro-growth, pro-efficiency development practices.
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#JaxStrong Initiative: The 90-Day Permit Promise
Fixing Jacksonville’s Broken Building Permit Process
The Problem
Right now, builders, homeowners, and business owners in Jacksonville are waiting up to 6 months just to get building permits approved. This is stalling economic growth, killing development opportunities, and frustrating families and entrepreneurs who just want to build something great in our city.
The Solution: The 90-Day Permit Promise
As Mayor, I will overhaul Jacksonville’s permitting system to ensure every building permit is processed within 90 days or less — no exceptions.
How We Get It Done
Digital Overhaul
Launch a modern, online permitting platform that allows fast, trackable submissions and real-time updates — no more paper chases.
Fast-Track Permits
Create an expedited permitting lane for qualifying projects (like affordable housing or job-creating businesses) with guaranteed 30–45 day approvals.
More Staff, Better Training
Hire more trained permit reviewers and cross-train current staff to handle multiple parts of the process, especially during high-demand periods.
Pre-Approved Building Plans
Offer ready-to-use, city-approved designs for common building types to help applicants skip long review wait times.
Public Transparency
Launch an online Permit Tracker so everyone can see exactly where their permit stands — and who’s holding it up.
Help Desk & Case Managers
Establish a customer service hotline and assign dedicated case managers for complex projects to guide applicants from start to finish.
Incentives for Speed
Reward city departments and staff who consistently meet or beat the 90-day turnaround with bonuses and public recognition.
Timeline to Action
- First 100 Days: Audit current system, hire staff, launch digital transformation.
- Within 6 Months: Fast-Track program live, tracker online, templates available.
- Within 1 Year: 90-Day Permit Promise in full effect.