San Juan County stops building permit administration creating urgent need for local system

The Bluff Town Council held a critical meeting on March 4, 2025, to address urgent issues surrounding building permits and inspections following San Juan County's decision to cease handling these processes for the town. The council was informed that the county would no longer issue new building permits, leaving Bluff in an emergency situation that necessitates the establishment of its own permitting system.

Kristen Bushnell, the San Juan County Planning Administrator, communicated that the county would continue to manage existing permits but would not accept new applications. This shift has prompted Bluff to consider adopting its own building code and amending its master fee schedule to facilitate the permitting process. Council members discussed the need for immediate action, as the town has been relying on the county's regulations and now faces a gap in building inspection services.

The council explored potential solutions, including contracting a building inspector on an emergency basis. However, discussions revealed challenges in finding qualified inspectors, as neighboring cities are also experiencing staffing shortages. Bluff officials noted that they may need to act quickly to secure an inspector, potentially retroactively approving any emergency contracts to ensure compliance with building regulations.

The council emphasized the importance of having all necessary paperwork ready to accompany the new building code once adopted. While some ordinances require public hearings, it was clarified that the building code itself could be passed without such a process, allowing for swift implementation.

As the meeting concluded, council members recognized the pressing need to establish a functional permitting system to support ongoing and future construction projects in Bluff. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the onset of favorable building weather, with several projects already underway without proper permits. The council's next steps will involve finalizing the building code and securing inspection services to ensure compliance and safety in local construction efforts.