11/7/2025
1 RiversideCA.gov1
RiversideCA.govTENANT IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMEconomic Development CommitteeNovember 20, 2025Community & Economic Development RiversideCA.gov2
•Provide an update on efforts to streamline the tenant improvement process for businesses•Align improvements with the City’s Streamline Riverside initiative.PURPOSE 11/7/2025
2 RiversideCA.gov3
BACKGROUND•Businesses are vital to Riverside’s economy, supporting local jobs and community vitality.•Many encounter challenges navigating the City’s codes, policies, and processes during startup or buildout.•Common issues include complex entitlements, navigating the plan check process, and inspection requirements.•These can lead to delays, unexpected costs, and frustration among applicants.
RiversideCA.gov4
BUSINESS FEEDBACK•Need for clearer guidance and predictable timelines.•Desire for stronger communication and interdepartmental coordination.•Importance of consistent interpretation of codes. 11/7/2025
3 RiversideCA.gov5
FLOW CHARTPlanningClearanceBuilding permit plan prep & issuance Application& Plan Submission
Planning ClearancePlanningClearanceBusiness OpensClearanceInspectionsPermit IssuancePlan CorrectionPlan Review1-3DaysReview: 5-10 DaysApplicant Corrects &Resubmits 3Days
3Days15-20Days
RiversideCA.gov6
Common Challenges•Late identification of site or land-use issues•Complex entitlement and zoning processes•Dated code requirements for certain uses Streamline Strategies•Early Coordination •Clearer guidance materials and checklists for applicants•Solution building•Regular code updates for common challenges•Active communication & meeting coordination to streamline feedbackPLANNING DIVISION
11/7/2025
4 RiversideCA.gov7
BUILDING & SAFETY DIVISIONCommon Challenges•Incomplete or unclear design documents•Missing structural or accessibility details•Resubmittals due to misunderstanding of standards•Inconsistent feedback•Misunderstanding of StandardsStreamline Strategies•Pre-design consultations with reviewers and inspectors•QR-Code Inspection Scheduling for quick and flexible appointments.•Expedited Review Pathways for qualifying remodels and projects.•Over-the-Counter Reviews for simple projects•Self-Certification Program for qualified professionals•Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) allows safe early occupancy for minor pending items•Pilot AI-Assisted Plan Screening to flag common errors and improve first-cycle approvals RiversideCA.gov8
FIRE PREVENTIONCommon Challenges•Occupancy changes without permits or inspections•Omitted fire-safety details in plans•Limited awareness of ongoing code obligations Streamline Strategies•Free Fire Clearance Inspections for early compliance•Pre-design Meetings to clarify fire-code expectations•Guidance Materials and handouts for applicants•Cross-Department Coordination with Planning and Building•Education & Outreach for owners and contractors 11/7/2025
5 RiversideCA.gov9
PUBLIC WORKSCommon Challenges•Missing plumbing or wastewater details•Late discovery of grease-control or pretreatment needs•Varying interpretation of plumbing codes Streamline Strategies•Pre-Application Consultations on discharge requirements•Concurrent Plan Reviews with Building & Safety•Standardized Forms for common business types•Published Criteria for pretreatment and interceptors•Cross-Training to align reviewer•Case by Case solutions for specific needs RiversideCA.gov10
Sewer Public Benefits Program (SPBP)Common Challenges•High upfront costs for grease-interceptor systems•Complex installation and retrofit requirements•Limited awareness of program benefits•Low participation due to lengthy application processProgram Benefits & Innovations•Reimbursement up to 50% of approved system costs•Technical support for system sizing and installation•Targeted outreach to increase awareness and participation•Performance tracking showing 80% reduction in sewer overflows since 2011•Program expansion through new grants and funding partnerships
11/7/2025
6 RiversideCA.gov11
RECOMMENDATIONSThat the Economic Development Committee:1. Receive and file the Tenant Improvement Program report