How Long It Really Takes to Get a Building Permit in San Francisco — and Why

<p>It&rsquo;s a simple project,&rdquo; says John McDowell, a permit expediter who helps would-be builders untangle San Francisco&rsquo;s legendary red tape. His current clients, who own an early 20th-century, mixed-use building on Market Street, want to replace wood windows with more durable materials that he swears will look &ldquo;exactly the same.&rdquo;</p> <p>McDowell says SF&rsquo;s planning commissioners, who must approve the swap, won&rsquo;t be able to tell the difference, let alone someone walking by on the street. The windows &ldquo;are on the second floor, even,&rdquo; he adds. He wouldn&rsquo;t disclose the specific address.</p> <p><a href="https://thefrisc.com/how-long-it-really-takes-to-get-a-building-permit-in-san-francisco-and-why-7f00dac3bf79"><strong>Website</strong></a></p>