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La Habra Heights planning commission weighs expedited permit program to reduce backlog
Summary
Commissioners backed studying an over‑the‑counter permit program for small projects after hearing yearslong plan‑check delays and large numbers of unpermitted projects; staff will cost out options, identify qualifying project types and return with a report.
La Habra Heights’ Planning Commission asked staff on Feb. 24 to study an expedited permit process aimed at shortening approval times for limited, routine projects such as patio covers, small additions and HVAC or reroofing work.
Chair Ray Fernandez, who initiated the item, said the proposal grew from complaints that project approvals can take months or years. “I've had architects tell me they won't do plans for the city,” Fernandez said, arguing that faster permitting could encourage people to pull permits rather than do work illegally.
Rafferty, community development staff, described how larger cities run express programs and cautioned that implementing a similar service here would carry costs. “There…
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