Many of the building departments we work with regularly allow us to file projects for permit review but will not issue the permit until the fee is paid. It's then a simple phone call to the client to let them know what the fee is and how to pay it...we'll even take their check to the building department if they can't/won't be bothered. On fixed fee projects, we also usually make our payment due immediately prior to filing, which provides a nice impetus to the client to keep the project moving.
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Robert Silarski AIA
Principal
S&Co. ' Architecture + Design
Nyack NY
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