TechDesk

The City is pleased to announce the launch of TechDesk, a new structured consultation program designed to help commercial permit applicants navigate complex technical questions that arise during the permitting process. TechDesk brings together representatives from multiple reviewing departments to provide coordinated guidance, clarify requirements, and identify actionable next steps for resolving multi-department issues. This optional program is intended to improve coordination and transparency, while helping applicants move their projects forward efficiently.

1. What is TechDesk?

TechDesk is a structured consultation program designed to help resolve complex technical questions that arise during the commercial permitting process. Applicants should begin by submitting permitting questions through the City’s general permitting mailbox, where staff will attempt to resolve the issue through standard coordination between reviewing departments. If a question requires additional coordination or cannot be resolved through the normal review process, the issue may be elevated to a TechDesk consultation. These consultations bring together representatives from multiple departments to clarify requirements, coordinate guidance, and identify next steps for resolving permitting issues.

Note: TechDesk is not a separate permitting process and does not replace standard permit review procedures.

2. When Should Applicants Use TechDesk?

TechDesk is most helpful for complex commercial permits that involve multiple reviewing departments.

Applicants may consider requesting a TechDesk consultation if they are experiencing:

• Projects with questions or differences in interpretation across reviewing departments
• Permits requiring coordination among multiple technical disciplines
• Applications where additional guidance could help clarify technical requirements
• Development projects with complex site design, utility, stormwater, transportation, or infrastructure considerations

Routine permit questions or standard review comments should continue to be addressed through the normal permitting process.

3. How the Process Works

TechDesk consultations occur after an initial attempt has been made to resolve the issue through the standard permitting communication process.

Step 1:
Submit your question or concern to [email protected].

Step 2:
City staff will review the inquiry and attempt to resolve the issue through email coordination within five business days.

Step 3:
If the issue cannot be resolved through email coordination, the matter may be elevated to a TechDesk consultation.

Step 4:
During the consultation, relevant departments meet with the applicant to discuss the issue and identify clear next steps.

Following the meeting, a summary of action items may be provided.

4. Consultation Schedule

TechDesk consultations are available during the following times:

Tuesdays: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Thursdays: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Consultations are typically conducted via Microsoft Teams.
In-person meetings may be accommodated upon request when feasible.

5. How to Request a Consultation

Applicants should begin by submitting their inquiry to [email protected].

When submitting a request, please include:

• Project name
• Permit number
• Property address
• Description of the issue or question
• Relevant plan sheets or supporting documentation

If the issue cannot be resolved through standard coordination, staff will provide instructions for scheduling a TechDesk consultation.

Consultations must be scheduled at least 72 hours in advance to allow staff adequate time to review project materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is TechDesk required?

No. TechDesk is an optional consultation resource designed to help resolve complex permitting questions when additional coordination is needed.

Does TechDesk speed up the permitting process?

TechDesk is not an expedited review process. The purpose of the consultation is to clarify technical requirements and improve coordination between departments when issues arise during permit review.

Can residential permits use TechDesk?

At this time, TechDesk is primarily focused on commercial development permits that involve complex technical coordination between multiple reviewing departments.

Most residential permits can be resolved through the City’s standard permitting process. If additional coordination is needed, staff will work with the applicant to determine the best way to address the issue.

Is TechDesk a formal appeal?

No. TechDesk is not an appeal process. It is a collaborative consultation intended to clarify requirements, coordinate guidance between departments, and identify next steps for resolving technical issues.

Who participates in TechDesk consultations?

Depending on the issue being discussed, consultations may include staff from:

• Planning and Development Review
• Department of Public Works
• Department of Public Utilities
• Richmond Fire Department (Fire Marshal’s Office)
• Other departments involved in the project review

What should applicants prepare before the meeting?

Applicants should be prepared to discuss:

• The specific issue or question
• Relevant plan sheets or technical documents
• Previous review comments or correspondence related to the issue

Providing this information in advance allows staff to review materials and provide more effective guidance during the consultation.