Port Orchard, WA — The Kitsap County Department of Community Development (DCD) is proud to announce the launch of Phase 3 of the Permit Review Efficiency Plan (PREP). The 2x6 Review Model will be applied to Land Use permit applications, completing the phased implementation of this permit review improvement effort.

PREP was developed to address challenges in the permitting process by focusing on predictable timelines, stronger initial submittals, and greater transparency for applicants. The 2x6 Review Model, so named for its structure of two review cycles, each lasting six weeks, has already been successfully implemented for Site Development Activity Permits (SDAPs) and Plats in earlier phases.

“I am proud of our staff’s dedication and willingness to adapt—qualities that have driven this program’s success and shown how much we’ve learned along the way. We’ve built a strong foundation for a more predictable, transparent permit process. Phase 3 completes the 2x6 rollout, but it’s only the beginning of our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement and to building a more accountable DCD.” — Cecilia Olsen, Assistant Director of Planning and Permitting.

Through PREP, DCD continues to emphasize complete, well-prepared applications. The department has also adopted a permit review cycle limit policy, ensuring that applications submitted on or after January 1, 2025, are reviewed efficiently, with a maximum of two cycles and an optional third cycle for minor corrections, approved only by supervisors.

Applicants are already seeing the impact.

“We were eager to be a test pilot for the new 2x6 program after last summer’s workshops. The built-in touch bases, review times, and milestones have made communication with the County more streamlined than in past projects. Having the opportunity to provide feedback during the process has been invaluable, and I’m confident this will become a highly successful tool.” Marianne Weber, VP of Property Management, Development, Principal for Elevated Property Services.

To support applicant success, DCD provides a range of resources—including intake checklists, submittal success guide, and award-winning mapping tools—available on the Permit Pathways page.

For more information about PREP and the 2x6 Review Model, visit the PREP website.

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