The city’s Community Development Department recently unveiled a new customer service initiative to improve the building permit process. “Alameda At Your Service” is a three-part program to help businesses secure building permits more quickly.

Depending upon the size and scope of the work, businesses receive self service — over-the-counter permits done on the spot; express service — permits approved in seven days; or full service — one-on-one assistance for complex development projects or economic development initiatives.

With full service, the department assigns applicants to a project liaison to help them navigate through the city’s process, as well as help with outside agencies. 

Full service also allows businesses the opportunity to have a pre-application meeting to review plans with a multi-departmental team. 

Applicants will hear direct feedback from the plan check staff in various departments prior to submitting their final plans. The goal is to get a good set of plans the first time, so projects can move forward quickly. 

For more information visit the Community Development Department’s page on the City of Alameda’s website at: www.alamedaca.gov/permits/alameda-your-service.

Contact Sun staff at editor@alamedasun.com.