Posted on July 15, 2025

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When undertaking a construction project—whether it's building a new home, adding an extension, or renovating an existing structure—obtaining the proper permits is a crucial step. Construction permits ensure that your project meets local codes, zoning requirements, and safety standards. However, the permitting process can be complicated and time-consuming, with various rules and regulations to navigate. Mistakes made during this process can lead to frustrating delays, additional costs, or even project shutdowns.

At Zenith and Buford, we've witnessed firsthand how small errors can snowball into major issues. Our years of experience have shown us the most common mistakes that people make when submitting construction permits. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the top mistakes to avoid to ensure your project goes smoothly and stays on track. By learning about these pitfalls and understanding how to sidestep them, you’ll set your project up for a successful, hassle-free permitting process.

Failing to Understand Local Building Codes and Zoning Laws

One of the most significant mistakes you can make when submitting a construction permit application is not fully understanding the local building codes and zoning laws. Different cities, counties, and even neighborhoods have their own unique regulations that govern how buildings can be constructed, renovated, or altered. These codes can cover a wide range of topics, from structural requirements to environmental considerations.

For example, certain areas may have restrictions on the height of buildings, the materials that can be used, or the amount of land that can be covered by the building’s footprint. Failing to consider these regulations can lead to delays, costly redesigns, or the outright rejection of your permit application. Additionally, zoning laws can limit how you use a property—what’s allowed in one area may not be permissible in another, even within the same city.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

To avoid this issue, take the time to thoroughly research the building codes and zoning laws specific to your project’s location. Working with an experienced professional, such as a consultant or architect, can be invaluable in ensuring that your project complies with local regulations. Regularly check for updates to these laws as they can change, impacting your project mid-process. A well-prepared application package that adheres to local codes will increase your chances of a swift approval.

Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

Submitting incomplete or incorrect documentation is one of the most common mistakes in the permitting process. Permitting authorities require a wide range of documents, such as blueprints, site plans, structural details, and sometimes environmental reports. These documents need to be accurate and thorough. An incomplete or incorrect submission not only leads to delays but can also result in the denial of your permit application.

Construction plans that are poorly detailed or lack clarity can raise red flags with reviewers, as they need to ensure every aspect of the project complies with safety standards and local codes. Missing information may also result in back-and-forth communication with permitting offices, which can slow down the process. In some cases, you might even be asked to redo sections of the project before resubmitting your application, which further delays the timeline.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

To prevent this from happening, ensure that all necessary documents are included in your application and double-check for accuracy. This includes everything from blueprints and site plans to engineering calculations and material specifications. If you're unsure about a specific document or detail, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional, such as a licensed architect or construction consultant. Having an expert review your submission before sending it can help avoid costly mistakes and delays.

Ignoring Environmental and Safety Requirements

Construction projects are inherently linked to environmental and safety considerations. Failing to address these issues when submitting your permit application can lead to severe setbacks. For example, environmental regulations may require you to submit a stormwater management plan, waste disposal plan, or even air quality considerations. Similarly, safety regulations—such as fire safety measures or structural integrity—must be thoroughly outlined in your plans.

Ignoring these elements can lead to delays in the review process as permitting authorities will ask for more details or refuse to approve the project until these concerns are addressed. In some cases, projects that don't meet safety or environmental standards might even be halted until further modifications are made. This not only increases the cost but also prolongs the project timeline.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Make sure that your plans include all necessary environmental and safety considerations from the start. Consult with experts, such as environmental engineers or safety consultants, to ensure your project complies with all applicable laws. Working with professionals who specialize in these areas can save you time and money in the long run by helping to identify potential issues early in the process.

Submitting Without a Properly Detailed Project Plan

A common mistake is submitting a permit application with vague or overly simplified project plans. Permitting authorities require a clear, detailed blueprint that outlines the specifics of your construction project. This includes floor plans, elevations, structural details, and systems such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. Without this level of detail, permitting offices can’t properly assess whether the project complies with all safety and zoning requirements.

Vague or incomplete plans often lead to requests for revisions or resubmissions, delaying the process and potentially causing project disruptions. A well-detailed plan helps ensure that all aspects of the project are covered, and it also reduces the chance of mistakes during construction.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Before submitting your application, make sure that your plans are comprehensive and thorough. Work with an experienced architect or engineer to create detailed blueprints that include every element of the project. Be sure to include all systems, such as electrical and plumbing, as well as any additional information that might be required for your specific location. Detailed plans will help permit reviewers understand exactly what you’re proposing and ensure everything complies with local regulations.

Not Allowing Enough Time for Permit Approval

Another mistake many people make is underestimating how long the permitting process will take. Permit approval is rarely instantaneous—depending on the complexity of the project and the specific regulations involved, approval can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. If you’re on a tight schedule and fail to account for this time, you risk delays that can impact the entire project timeline.

In some cases, additional time may be needed if the permit office requests more information, if your plans need to be revised, or if there’s an issue with code compliance. Planning for extra time can prevent frustrations and keep your project on schedule.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Always build extra time into your project timeline to accommodate for potential delays in the permit approval process. Submit your application as early as possible to give yourself enough time to respond to any requests for revisions. Stay in regular communication with the permitting office to monitor the progress of your application and get a sense of when approvals are expected.

Not Consulting With Professionals

Perhaps one of the biggest mistakes people make when submitting construction permits is trying to navigate the process without professional help. While it's possible to complete the permitting process on your own, the complexities involved make it far more efficient and effective to consult with professionals who specialize in this field.

Construction consultants, architects, and engineers bring a wealth of knowledge to the table. They understand local regulations, can help you avoid costly mistakes, and know how to prepare your application to meet all the requirements. Attempting to handle it yourself can lead to errors that delay the project and increase costs.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Consulting with a construction professional can streamline the permitting process and help avoid common pitfalls. Whether it’s an architect, an engineer, or a construction consultant, working with someone who understands the intricacies of local permitting can save you both time and money. Don’t hesitate to ask for expert guidance to ensure your project stays on track.

Submitting construction permits may seem like a straightforward task, but as we've discussed, there are numerous common mistakes that can derail your project. By understanding local building codes, ensuring that all documentation is complete and accurate, and consulting with professionals, you can avoid costly setbacks and delays. At Zenith and Buford, we specialize in providing expert consulting services for construction permits, ensuring that your application is submitted correctly and on time. If you're ready to take the next step in your construction project, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

Contact us today at (888) 928-8028 or email [email protected]. We’re here to help make the permitting process as smooth as possible!