Committee backs time-limits on construction permits to curb long-term unfinished projects

The committee approved moving forward with a proposal to set time limits on construction permit completion and to permit limited written extensions.

Staff presented a model used in many cities: single-family and duplex construction must be completed within 12 months of permit issuance; multifamily, commercial and industrial projects would have a 24-month completion target; minor alterations would require completion within six months. The zoning official would have discretion to grant extensions in six-month increments for reasonable cause, and the draft removes a previous single-extension limit to allow multiple short extensions without needing to return immediately for municipal action.

Committee members discussed enforcement practicality and retroactivity. Staff and the law director clarified the rules would apply to permits issued after adoption; the ordinance would not be applied retroactively to ongoing permitted projects. Members noted the provision provides a standard the city can use to pursue long-abandoned projects where work has stalled for long periods and no meaningful activity is visible. The proposal was described as a standard municipal tool used infrequently but useful when needed.

Councilman Grant Russell moved to adopt the time-of-construction rules and forward them to city council; Councilman DeArmond seconded. The motion carried by voice vote. Committee members asked staff to include an effective date (staff suggested a January 1 next-calendar-year effective date for clarity on existing permits).