We are an established Chinese developer that has been presented with a ground-up construction deal in Seattle. We are trying to create a proposed timeline for the project from design through stabilization. However, we are not very familiar at all with the U.S. processes for getting approval from the local municipality. How long can this process take? What steps can we take to help expedite the process?
Answers
Unfortunately, the answer to this question will vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, usually at the county or municipal level, where each will have different zoning rules and regulations and processes. The first question you need to answer is whether the project qualifies as an "as of right" project such that you do not need to obtain a variance, exception or change in the zoning, as those things can add a lot of time to a project moving forward. Even if you do not need to get a variance or zoning change, you may need a site plan approval or other approvals before you can apply for building permits, which is the last stage of a process before construction begins. I would strongly recommend you speak to a local land use expert in Seattle to answer this specific question about time frame and process, as well as the likelihood of success, and do the same with a local expert in any other jurisdiction for other projects upon which you may embark.
There are no generic answers to this question. If you are in Seattle, you need to engage an advisor who can assist you, who is well-versed in the local zoning and other laws. You need to start with what is as of right under current zoning and go from there.