Have you heard of “plan stamping”? If not, you’re not alone—but this shady shortcut is a growing problem in the building industry, and it can jeopardize your entire project.
Recently, I received an email that raised major red flags. The subject? Fast-tracking permit approval with stamped drawings—even if they didn’t create the plans themselves.
Here’s a quote from the email:
“Need help getting your architectural plans approved fast? (Company name) provides licensed stamping, signing, and city permit compliance services—quickly and accurately.”
At first glance, it might sound helpful. But this is a textbook example of what’s known as plan stamping—and it’s not just unethical. In most states, including Colorado, plan stamping is illegal.
🚫 What Is Plan Stamping?
Plan stamping is when a licensed architect or engineer signs and seals architectural drawings they didn’t personally prepare or supervise. It’s often offered as a way to “get your permit fast,” but it violates state licensure laws and professional ethics.
Using a stamped set of drawings from someone who wasn’t involved in the design is not just a bad idea—it could cause:
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Permit rejections
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Project delays
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Fines
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Legal consequences
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Loss of professional licensure
In short: plan stamping can cost you far more than it saves.
😳 A Local Example: Fraud in Colorado Springs
Just recently, a contractor we worked with told us he tried to hire a structural “engineer” from our town. The man claimed he was licensed—but after checking, it turned out he wasn’t even an engineer.
Imagine if that individual had stamped structural plans. The risks to the contractor—and the homeowner—could’ve been massive. This is why knowing about plan stamping and permit fraud matters so much.
✅ How to Protect Your Project from Plan Stamping Scams
If you’re a homeowner, contractor, or developer, here are three ways to avoid falling into a plan stamping trap:
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Always verify licenses. In Colorado, you can use the DORA AES License Lookup to confirm whether an architect or engineer is truly licensed.
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Only use professionals directly involved in your project. A legitimate architect or engineer will be actively involved in the design process and will never just “stamp” your plans for a fee.
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Ask direct questions. If someone offers “fast approvals” or “stamp-only” services, ask: Did you supervise or review the plans yourself? If not, walk away.
🔎 What About Team Collaboration—Is That Plan Stamping?
No. Legitimate collaboration between designers and licensed engineers is not plan stamping.
For example, at Essential Pillar Architecture, our team often prepares structural drafts internally. A licensed structural engineer—whose license we verify—then reviews, directs revisions, and stamps the plans only after ensuring everything meets code.
This is called working under the responsible charge of the licensed professional.
✅ The key difference? The engineer is actively involved and takes full responsibility—not simply stamping plans they didn’t oversee.
If you’re ever unsure whether your process is compliant, feel free to reach out. We’re happy to help.
Integrity Over Speed
At Essential Pillar Architecture, we believe in building with integrity. We don’t take shortcuts when it comes to design, safety, or compliance—and neither should you. Plan stamping may sound like a fast track, but it can leave you stuck in delays, legal trouble, and even unsafe construction.
Have questions about the permit process or want help making sure your project is on the right track? Reach out anytime—we’re here to help.
👉 Reach out to us at 719-629-7349
📧 Or email us at service@essentialpillar.com
🌐 Visit us online at https://EssentialPillar.com to learn more or request a consultation.
Let’s build with integrity—together.