Red Deer building permits go digital

RED DEER, ALTA. – Red Deer’s building permit process is going digital.

Building permits can be applied for virtually with the city’s new online software system. Customers will now be able to apply for commercial building permits as well as permits for new dwellings, home renovations, basement developments, decks, garages, sheds, hot tubs and manufactured homes online.

The city selected ProjectDox by Avolve Software as the successful plan review through an RFP process. In addition to digital application and plan submission, the software allows for plan review, mark-up and approval.

ProjectDox will be used with MyPermits, Red Deer’s current online permitting system that will now host building permit applications. The system is available to both residential and commercial customers and requires a MyCity profile.

The new addition is part of the city’s Enterprise Business Applications, a broader project focused on integrating and replacing software applications where needed. Since its creation in 2015 with implementation of the Tempest software, many inspections and licensing application processes have been enhanced to include an option for online submissions and customer self-service. Development and building permit application improvement is the next step in making inspections and licensing services more convenient.

City officials stated online development permit applications are the next step in the process, followed by other permit applications later this year. They noted all building and development permit applications will be transitioned to the online system by the end of 2022. While printed applications and plans will still be accepted, online applications are encouraged.

“We’re pleased to offer developers and residents an easy and efficient way to apply for permits online,” said Erin Stuart, inspections and licensing manager, in a statement. “After extensive testing, we’re confident this new software will streamline the workflow between applicant and staff and reduce printing and storage costs for printed plans.”