According to CRE Daily, a leading digital media outlet covering the commercial real estate industry, Fort Worth has been ranked first in the nation for permitting efficiency. The recognition comes from Labrynth’s 2025 Red Tape Index 500, an AI-driven analysis evaluating how quickly and effectively cities process development permits. With a score of 0.96, Fort Worth leads all major U.S. cities, standing out for its speed, clarity and continuous improvements in permitting operations. For developers and commercial real estate investors, that performance translates directly into faster approvals, fewer delays and greater confidence in project timelines.
The Development Services Department’s top ranking reflects several years of strategic investment in modern digital systems, streamlined workflows and improved customer service. These changes have helped the City process permits more efficiently, ensuring developers can move from planning to construction with minimal friction. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our Development team, community stakeholders and the vision of our executive leadership,” said Development Services Department Director D.J. Harrell. “Our team shows up every day committed to delivering clear, predictable and customer-focused service, and I’m incredibly proud of the work they do to support Fort Worth’s growth and economic development.”
The Red Tape Index evaluates 500 U.S. cities with populations of 50,000 or more, measuring:
- Permitting speed
- Transparency and communication
- Year-over-year improvement
Fort Worth excelled across all three categories. As Labrynth noted, the City’s success is no accident — it’s the result of intentional reforms designed to support continued growth for one of the fastest-expanding cities in the country. Permitting speed and efficiency matter for investors and developers because permitting speed can dramatically influence a project’s viability. Cities that demonstrate predictable, transparent processes offer lower risks, competitive timelines and greater development certainty.
The Development Services Department’s top ranking positions the City of Fort Worth as a national model for business-friendly governance, reinforcing its ongoing momentum as a hub for investment and population growth. As Fort Worth continues to grow, its commitment to fast, transparent permitting will remain a key driver of economic competitiveness — and a significant advantage for anyone doing business in the city.
