Edmonton becomes 1st Canadian city to approve automated development permits
Posted September 12, 2024 4:21 pm.
The City of Edmonton says it is introducing an auto review process for housing development permits in the city.
The new digital tool will allow people to apply for a development permit, which will also allow them to begin building on the same day.
The goal of the automated process is to allow builders to get shovels in the ground faster, and to increase development to meet the growing need for houses in Edmonton.
“Innovation is part of our ongoing commitment to service improvement and how Edmonton has become a national leader in streamlining and speeding up development,” said Travis Pawlyk, Branch Manager of Development Services.
“By saving applicants valuable time, more housing can be built, faster. Accelerating development also reduces carrying costs for home builders, helping to keep housing prices down.”
According to the city, those looking to build a single detached or semi-detached home in a greenfield area of the city will now be able to go to the self-service website and file details of their development plan.
Once submitted, if the application meets the necessary requirements, a development permit will be issued immediately. The City does note some plans will be subject to a random audit.
The City says the auto-review process is one of many steps being taken to achieve building and development goals faster.
