THUNDER BAY — Applying for a building permit in the City of Thunder Bay just got a lot easier.
The city on Tuesday announced the launch of its new online Property and Permits Portal, which allows homeowners and contractors to apply for a permit as well as pay for it on the municipal website.
Users are able to track the progress of their applications through the new system, and members of the public can even search for work taking place in their neighbourhood.
Previously, applicants were required to bring paper documentation into the development services office during business hours, or submit their plans via email.
"The goal is to create a fully digital, end-to-end experience on the portal," said Joel DePeuter, the director of development services.
"The public can now apply for these permits, arrange for inspections and complete the entire building permit process at their convenience without having to come into our office."
For the time being, online applications are available for residential accessory buildings such as sheds and garages, decks, woodstoves, swimming pool fences, plumbing systems and residential renovations.
Online applications for other building permits will become available sometime in the fall.
Pre-consultation applications are already online as well, and additional planning applications will be offered in the future.
Users of the portal will create an account and fill in the required information for their specific permit.
The system also allows required documents such as site plans to be uploaded.
According to a statement from the city, both the Building Services and Planning Services web pages have been redesigned so as to be more user-friendly and easier to navigate.
The launch of the portal is a component of the city's digital strategy, which aims to bring more city services fully online.
