At-Risk Commercial Building Permit

Understanding an At-Risk Commercial Building Permit

An At-Risk Commercial (or Non-Residential) Building Permit is an option for an eligible building permit applicant who is constructing commercial or multifamily building projects.

Defining At-Risk Commercial Building Permit

A building permit applicant assumes all risks of liability, and the local government pursuant to this subsection assumes all risks of liability, and the local government is discharged and released from any liabilities, duties and responsibilities attributable to the review, approval, or construction pursuant to the at-risk permit.

Eligibility and At-Risk Permit Process

A permit applicant is eligible  to request a Pre-Submittal meeting under the following circumstances:

1. Possess sealed and complete project plans and specifications for a building project.
2. Applicant has determined whether an at-risk permit option will be utilized for their project.
3. Project Plans are identical to plans which may be under review in an adjacent process such as an Administrative Site Review or Site Permit Review.
4. The building permit applicant has made best efforts to compile and prepare documents required by regulatory agencies.

The At-Risk permitting process is described as follows: 

1. Schedule a virtual Pre-Conference submittal for At-Risk.
2. Meet with the City personnel in the Pre-Conference.
   1. Submit the following documents:
      1. Approved Erosion Control plan or case number 
      2. At-Risk Non-Residential Permit Application
      3. Sealed and Complete project building plans
   2. Project plans specifying foundation only. 
      1. Foundation permits are to be issued prior to a review of structure and roof.
3. Sealed and Complete Drawings will be routed for review.
   1. Initial 10 business days for review cycle.
   2. Resubmittals are routed for 8 business days.
4. Foundation only permit is issued upon approval in a final review.
5. Schedule a subsequent meeting for a structural and roof permitting. 

Need a Pre-Submittal Meeting for an At-Risk Permit? Schedule a 20-minute Appointment

Schedule a 20-minute virtual meeting with a Staff.

TIPS for pursuing an At-Risk Permit:

• Understand At-Risk Permit state law General Statute 160-D-1110.1.
• Ensure project building plans are sealed and complete.

Plans should show foundation however, structural with roof specifications are reference only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are there any approvals required prior to obtaining an At-Risk Permit? 

A: Yes. Erosion and Sediment Control Plans must be approved prior to issuing a at-risk building permit for a foundation. These plans are approved either under a Mass Grading or Site Permit Review. 

Q: How much will a  commercial building permit cost? 

A: The Development Fee Guide provides a detailed list of specific development fees.  You can also use the fee calculator for an estimate of building and trade permit fees.

Q: Which scopes of work may be permitted under At-Risk? 

A: Eligible permit applicants may pursue a foundation permit and subsequently, a building permit for structural or framing members for exterior walls and roof assemblies.

Q: Will I receive a certificate of occupancy under At-Risk Permit? 

A:  Site plans and infrastructure drawings must be approved, site permits must be completed and building trades approved the building permits with completed inspections prior to issuing a Certificate of Occupancy.