Edmonton is making a big change to how development permits are processed, aiming to speed up the system for builders. The city is introducing a new auto-review system that will allow some permits to be approved on the same day they are submitted. This move is expected to reduce wait times, allowing construction projects to begin much sooner than before. Builders and developers in Edmonton have often faced delays, which could stretch out for weeks or months, due to the time it took to process permits manually.
The new auto-review system will apply to specific types of permits, such as smaller residential projects like home renovations or new builds that follow city guidelines. According to the City of Edmonton, this automated approach will use advanced software to quickly assess applications for compliance with local rules. If the system determines everything meets the city's standards, a permit could be approved immediately, cutting out the usual waiting period.
This change comes as part of Edmonton’s larger effort to make the city more attractive for development and to reduce red tape for businesses. City officials hope that the auto-review system will boost the local economy by making it easier for contractors and developers to get their projects off the ground. It’s also expected to relieve pressure on city staff, who currently have to process thousands of permit applications manually each year.
While the system is a positive step for many, some industry experts are raising concerns. They caution that while the auto-review tool will speed up approvals, it could also lead to errors if applications are rushed through without a human review. The City of Edmonton has assured the public that safeguards will be in place to catch any potential issues, and permits that require more complex reviews will still go through the traditional process.
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