In a move to make the permitting process more user-friendly, the City of Winnipeg has introduced new features to its Permits Online platform. The enhancements, which form the first phase of planned improvements, allow homeowners and contractors to apply for most residential building permits, including new home construction, home additions, renovations, solar installations, and demolitions.

Mayor Scott Gillingham lauded the improvements, stating that they not only streamline the permit process and improve customer service, but also align with the city’s goal of approving more housing more quickly. Sherri Rollins, Chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on Property and Development, echoed the Mayor’s sentiments, adding that the Council is aware there is more to do with respect to permits and will continue to make improvements.

One of the significant enhancements is the ability for customers to save and return to partially completed permit applications within a 30-day period. This feature allows customers to save permit information as they go, and work through the process at their own pace. Customers can also now view a record of submitted documents.

Hazel Borys, Director of the Planning, Property & Development Department, said, “These initial enhancements will help improve our customers’ ability to apply for certain permits online. This is one of a series of planned improvements to help modernize our Permits Online platform and build a truly comprehensive one-stop shop to help streamline the permit process.”

The enhanced Permits Online platform also allows customers to view the status of permits and applications, and make payments. Licensed contractors can even renew their licenses using the online platform.

The improvements to Permits Online are part of a larger, ongoing process to digitize building permit applications and expand online applications, such as online appointments and self-service options, aimed at accelerating the rate of development in Winnipeg.

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