Launched through the Buildings Safety Engineering and Environmental Department, ePlan is expected to more efficiently handle the 200-300 permit requests submitted to the department per week, said James Foster, project manager.
The city has received about 80 permit requests online since the system officially went live early October. So far, metrics indicate the service is cutting wait time by about 40 percent, from four-eight weeks to one-four weeks. Foster said that doesn't include the time saved not having to print paper plans and deliver them in person.
"We're finding the client base is very excited about the service," he said. "This is something they've been waiting on."
The ePlan service is a prelude to the department's goal to be integrated fully online by spring with a new government software from Accela Inc. It has been using a program called Tidemark but is set to "rip the Band-Aids off" with integration of a new system, Foster said.
The city paid a one-time fee of $262,750 to implement ePlan and will pay $147,000 in annual operating costs, Foster said.
The online permit service allows clients to electronically submit permit documentation, pay application fees, view permit status and receive approval for projects ranging from home remodels to major downtown developments.
Previously, paper applications submitted to the city were passed along from desk to desk in an approval process that could often be choppy and time consuming. Online applications can be viewed by city reviewers simultaneously, allowing for a much quicker approval.
Paper applications will still be accepted for the time being.
"Obviously, we will be encouraging (applying) online because it's so much quicker," Foster said.
He said there are no plans for employee consolidation with the new online service but that streamlining the process will allow the department to reposition employees as needed.
To submit permits online, clients must create an account through the city.
