Understanding Labrynth's Red Tape Index: A Guide to Smarter Building Permits

What is the Red Tape Index?

The Red Tape Index is a comprehensive, data-driven benchmark designed by Labrynth to track and compare how efficiently U.S. states process building permits, zoning changes, and related approvals.

Why was the Red Tape Index created?

It was created to bring transparency to permitting delays, a significant barrier to infrastructure development, by spotlighting inefficiencies and success stories to help public officials and developers move projects forward more efficiently.

How does the Red Tape Index work?

The index aggregates publicly available data from building departments, zoning boards, and state environmental agencies, and integrates direct input from local governments and developers, using a weighted scoring system to rank states.

Who can benefit from the Red Tape Index?

Public officials, private developers, and investors can benefit by using the index to identify bottlenecks, compare permitting efficiency across regions, and make smarter decisions regarding infrastructure projects.

When was the Red Tape Index launched?

The Red Tape Index was announced recently, with detailed city and county level insights to be published in the next 30 days, and the platform will be updated quarterly.

Where is the Red Tape Index applicable?

The index is applicable across the U.S., initially providing state-level data with plans to expand to city and county level insights.

What are the top states according to the Red Tape Index?

The top states include Tennessee, Florida, Texas, Indiana, Arizona, North Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, Michigan, and New Hampshire, based on a weighted scoring system.

How can local governments and stakeholders engage with the Red Tape Index?

They are invited to submit or verify data to ensure accuracy and relevance, contributing to the index’s goal of transparency and collaboration.

What are the implications of the Red Tape Index for infrastructure development?

The index aims to reduce permitting delays, thereby accelerating infrastructure projects, saving time and money, and supporting economic growth and competitiveness.

Where can I find more information about the Red Tape Index?

For more details, including how the rankings were compiled, visit https://www.redtapeindex.com/state-of-states or explore the full list and metrics at www.redtapeindex.com.