How Long Does It Really Take to Get Development Approvals?

February 16, 2026 | Kristi Kandel

ASK:

How long does it actually take to go from an idea to approved plans?

ANSWER:

This is one of the most underestimated parts of development. Many first time developers assume approvals will take a few weeks or a couple of months. In reality, approvals often take longer than construction itself.

Even for small projects, it is common to spend six (6) months to a year in some stage of planning, zoning, or permitting. Larger or more complex projects can take much longer.

Here is why approvals stretch out:

Zoning and Entitlements

If your project fits within existing zoning and does not require variances or rezoning, approvals can move relatively quickly. Think a few months.

If you need zoning changes, conditional use permits, or variances, timelines expand fast. Public hearings, staff reviews, and revisions all add time. Nine (9) to eighteen (18) months is not unusual.

Plan Review and Permits

Once zoning is settled, building plans go through multiple departments. Planning, engineering, utilities, fire, and building officials all review the same set of drawings. Each round of comments can take several weeks, especially in busy jurisdictions.

Incomplete or unclear plans slow this down more than anything else.

Public Process

Public notice requirements add time whether there is opposition or not. Neighbors must be notified. Meetings must be scheduled. Some commissions only meet once a month.

None of this is personal. It is simply how the process works.

The developers who move fastest are not the ones who rush. They are the ones who submit a complete set of plans, respond quickly to comments, and stay in regular communication with staff.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Approvals often take longer than expected, even for small projects.
• Clean and complete submittals save months of back and forth.
• Staying responsive and organized has a bigger impact than pushing deadlines.

PEOPLE ALSO ASK:

What is an entitlement?

An entitlement is formal approval from the city that allows a specific use, density, or layout on a property. The right to build a specific type of project on a property. 

Can I start construction before everything is approved?

Only if the city allows phased permits. Never assume this without written confirmation and make sure you clearly understand the risks involved with starting construction early.

Who controls the approval timeline the most?

The developer does. You’re responsible for ensuring that the entire design team is on track, permit plans coordinated and addressing all submittal requirements, and prompt responses to plan check corrections. Slow responses and incomplete plans create most delays.

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