Regardless of the size of the construction project in Waco, TX, every structure—from small outbuildings to expansive commercial developments—needs an official permit. These permits validate that your project meets all building codes and regulations, thus ensuring safety and legality.

While it is a vital part of the construction process, obtaining these permits can sometimes feel like a daunting task for architects, contractors, and project owners alike. The process can be filled with a number of bureaucratic hurdles, making it seem complex and time-consuming. So in this blog, we are sharing three secrets to make your permit acquisition process straightforward.

Secret 1: Register with the Inspection Services Department

Before starting any construction project in Waco, securing the necessary building permits from the Inspection Services Department is essential. This department is responsible for issuing permits for all new construction and remodeling projects, including plumbing, electrical, and mechanical work.

A prerequisite for obtaining these permits is that the contractor must be registered with the department’s office. The registration process involves proving state licensing for the contractor’s work, whether mechanical, plumbing, electrical, or irrigation. Importantly, there is no registration fee for contractors. The registration process is carried out through the Citizen Self Service Portal, where you can create an account and apply for permits.

Furthermore, contractors must submit a certificate of insurance with the City of Waco listed as the certificate holder. The minimum coverage requirement is $300,000.

Secret 2: Follow inspection procedures and schedules

Every construction project in Waco must adhere to strict inspection procedures and schedules. Inspections must be requested online or called in by 3 p.m. the day before the inspection is needed. To do this, contractors must be registered and use the Citizen Self Service Portal. Licensed trades such as plumbing, electrical, and mechanical contractors are responsible for calling in their own inspections since they are the permit holder.

The inspectors create their routes the following morning and can give an approximate time of inspection by 8:45 a.m. that morning if needed. In case of emergencies, the Inspection Services Department will work with the contractor or owner to prevent any customer from being left without gas or electrical service.

Secret 3: Communicate effectively with inspectors

Maintaining good communication with your inspector is crucial to the success of your project. The inspectors are usually in the office between 8 and 9 a.m. and from 4:30 to 5 p.m. They can be contacted via email for comments, or the office staff can transfer calls to the inspector’s voicemail for a return call.

Checking your inspection results is as easy as logging in to your account, selecting the applicable active project, opening the inspection, and selecting the checklist to review the inspector’s comments. Open lines of communication with inspectors will keep you informed of your project’s progress and any issues that may need to be addressed promptly.

In Conclusion

For those finding the steps mentioned above daunting, there is an alternative: hiring a permit expediter. Permit expediters, like Permit Us Now, are well-versed in the permitting process in Waco, ensuring a smooth permit acquisition.

At Permit Us Now, we understand the importance of seamless permit approval processes, and we are dedicated to supporting project owners in navigating the complex permit landscape. Our team is committed to pulling permits for our Architect, Contractor, and Project Owner clients without delay, eliminating frustrations and simplifying the permitting process. To get started, email us your plans, follow up on our feedback for any missing items, and let us handle your permitting needs. Call 1.844.PERMIT.4 today to begin your permit journey! #BuildSafe