Planning for Realistic Timelines
Industrial development timelines depend on jurisdiction, project complexity, and market conditions. Here's what to expect in Texas markets.
Phase 1: Design Development (8-16 weeks)
Activities: Site planning and civil design, Building design development, MEP system design, and Permit document preparation.
Key milestones: Owner program confirmation, Design review meetings, Constructability reviews, and Cost validation.
Phase 2: Permitting (6-16 weeks)
Timeline by jurisdiction (typical):
| Location | Building Permit | Site Permit |
|---|---|---|
| Houston (ETJ) | 4-6 weeks | 6-10 weeks |
| Houston (City) | 6-10 weeks | 8-14 weeks |
| Dallas | 6-10 weeks | 8-12 weeks |
| Austin | 10-16 weeks | 12-18 weeks |
| San Antonio | 6-10 weeks | 8-12 weeks |
Factors affecting timeline: Review backlog, Plan quality and completeness, Third-party reviews required, and Zoning compliance.
Phase 3: Procurement (Overlaps with Permitting)
Long-lead item orders: Structural steel/PEMB: Submit immediately after design freeze, Major electrical equipment: 20-30 weeks lead time, and Dock equipment: Order during permitting.
Bid packages: Site work: 3-4 weeks to bid, Shell construction: 4-6 weeks to bid, and MEP: 4-6 weeks to bid.
Phase 4: Mobilization (2-4 weeks)
Pre-mobilization requirements: Permits in hand, Contracts executed, Insurance certificates, SWPPP implemented, Temporary utilities arranged, and Site access confirmed.
Mobilization activities: Temporary fencing and signage, Construction trailer setup, Survey and layout, Erosion controls, and Clearing and grubbing.
Total Timeline Summary
Fastest realistic schedule (simple project, favorable jurisdiction): Design: 8 weeks, Permitting: 6 weeks (overlapping procurement), Mobilization: 2 weeks, and Total to groundbreaking: 12-14 weeks.
Typical schedule (moderate complexity): Design: 12 weeks, Permitting: 10 weeks (overlapping procurement), Mobilization: 3 weeks, and Total to groundbreaking: 16-20 weeks.
Complex project schedule: Design: 16 weeks, Permitting: 14 weeks, Mobilization: 4 weeks, and Total to groundbreaking: 24-30 weeks.
Our preconstruction team develops detailed schedules specific to your project and jurisdiction.