Georgetown's cobblestone streets and Federal-style architecture make it one of Washington's most coveted neighborhoods. However, this historic charm comes with a complex web of permitting requirements that can overwhelm even experienced property owners. As a permit expediter who has guided hundreds of Georgetown projects through the approval process, I've created this comprehensive guide to help residents and property owners understand exactly what's required for their projects.

Postcard permits, officially known as "Express Permits" or "Over-the-Counter Permits" in Washington D.C., are simplified building permits designed for straightforward, low-risk construction projects. The nickname "postcard permit" comes from the fact that these applications are typically no larger than a postcard and can often be approved within minutes or hours rather than the weeks or months required for traditional building permits.