The Arizona Republic
Edited
Work continues on a study by consulting firm Zucker Systems to improve Peoria’s permitting process.
The city is considering adopting a self-permitting process similar to Phoenix, which allows certified architects to review and approve their own plans. Phoenix conducts audits to ensure quality.
Whyte said self-certification is an important part of the study, but the city also is exploring other ways to expand its permit offerings. Electronic plan submittal, online permitting and over-the-counter plan review for minor changes are under consideration, he said.
Brad Remp of Zucker Systems said he has talked to Phoenix development staff about the self-certification program to see how it could be best implemented in Peoria. He said the process is being used less often than the city anticipated.
“There are valuable lessons, and they help set the parameters for any kind of program in Peoria,” he said.