Plan Review
The desk review in which an AHJ checks drawings, forms, calculations, and supporting documents before issuing a permit.
Applies to
Building · Remodeling · Garage · Decks & patios · Trade permits
Project example
A garage packet may be returned because the site plan shows a different setback than the architectural plan.
Also called
Where this term shows up in permit work and how it affects the project
Plan-review comments create the revision loop. Resolving the comment against the exact source and resubmitting a coordinated packet is usually faster than answering each document separately.
If this term appears in a form, plan comment, or local ordinance, start with the building permit guide, compare it against the zoning permit guide, then use the permit guide directory to find the right local path.
Why plan review matters in a permit file
Plan review is where the AHJ tests whether the submitted documents are complete, internally consistent, and sufficient to show compliance. The reviewer is evaluating the record in front of them, not reconstructing missing design decisions for the applicant.
Where it appears in the permit process
Intake screening
Staff checks whether required forms, signatures, fees, drawings, and supporting documents are present before technical review begins.
Zoning and technical review
One or more reviewers compare the site plan, construction drawings, calculations, specifications, and scope against applicable rules.
Correction cycle
Unresolved questions become written comments that the applicant must answer through revised documents or additional information.
Approval and issuance
The accepted plan set becomes part of the permit record and controls the work inspectors expect to see.
What you may need
- Complete application, signatures, owner authorization, and contractor information
- Coordinated site plan and construction drawings
- Structural, energy, engineering, or product documentation when triggered
- Approvals from zoning, health, fire, utility, stormwater, or other review lanes
- A response letter and revised sheets for every correction comment
Where to get it or verify it
- Use the AHJ's submittal checklist, drawing standards, and portal instructions as the intake specification.
- Get design documents from the manufacturer, contractor, designer, architect, engineer, or other professional responsible for the scope.
- Request clarification from the named reviewer when a comment is ambiguous; do not guess silently across multiple sheets.
Common mistakes that create comments or delays
- Submitting forms and drawings that use different dimensions, addresses, or project descriptions
- Answering a comment in email without revising the controlling drawing
- Uploading only changed pages when the AHJ requires a complete coordinated set
- Treating a correction notice as a denial instead of a document-resolution task
What to do next
- Read the intake checklist before assembling the first packet.
- Run a consistency check across the application, site plan, drawings, and calculations.
- Track every reviewer comment, owner, source document, and revised sheet.
- Resubmit one coordinated response package and preserve the approved version for the field.