Securing Permits on the West Coast 

Securing permits has always been one of the most time-consuming aspects of real estate development, but on the West Coast, this step can pose a make-or-break challenge for investors, developers, and lenders alike. From California’s rigorous environmental laws to detailed design reviews in Portland and Seattle, developers can underestimate how local regulations, community input, and department backlogs can stretch a simple project timeline into years of waiting and costly delays.

Why Permitting Takes So Long

In California, the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires detailed Environmental Impact Reports (EIRs) for any project that may significantly affect the environment. According to the California Legislative Analyst’s Office, completing a full EIR typically takes two to three years, and that timeline can stretch even longer if legal challenges or public appeals arise.

In Seattle, developers also face extended review periods. A typical multifamily permit can take anywhere from eight weeks to several months, depending on project complexity and the number of design and community reviews required. Meanwhile, in Portland, permitting delays have become increasingly common. On average, it now takes about 200 days to issue a permit for a new commercial building; nearly triple the city’s stated goal of 71 days.

Several factors commonly add friction to the permitting process. Complex state and municipal regulations demand extensive documentation, multiple agency signoffs, and a readiness to address public input. Community opposition can lead to appeals or litigation, pushing timelines back months or even years. Adding to this, many planning departments remain understaffed after COVID-19, stretching review times further and increasing the risk of errors that require costly resubmissions.

How to Mitigate Permitting Delays

While it’s impossible to remove every hurdle, early action can significantly reduce surprises. Developers and lenders should build conservative timelines into their budgets and loan structures to account for local bottlenecks and appeals.

Working with consultants familiar with municipal processes is equally crucial. Local insight helps anticipate community concerns, navigate exceptions, and maintain a realistic schedule. For example, Moran Consultants often advises clients to:

• Conduct a thorough zoning and code review before land acquisition.
• Plan for flexible draw schedules that align with likely approval timelines.
• Maintain transparent communication between the owner, lender, and contractor throughout the review period.

How Moran Consultants Helps Keep West Coast Projects on Track

At Moran Consultants, we’ve seen firsthand how overlooked permitting can derail even the most promising projects. We understand the nuances of agencies from Los Angeles to Seattle and provide the reporting and oversight that lenders, owners, and developers need to make informed decisions at every stage.

Regional knowledge can be your biggest asset if your project is in the pipeline or stalled somewhere in the permitting maze. Moran Consultants brings decades of expertise to help keep construction timelines realistic and vested interests informed.

Give us a call at 866-545-3350 or contact us today to learn how we can support your next West Coast development.