On-line Permitting Solution Provides State's Contractors with 24-hour Access

E-Government portal site allows Michigan contractors to apply for and receive permits on-line

The Challenge

The Michigan Department of Consumer and Industry Services, Bureau of Construction Codes (BCC) issues and renews over 40,000 permits annually. BCC employees were spending so much of their time processing permits that they were unable to manage their other tasks. At the same time, contractors were unsatisfied with how long it was taking to receive simple construction permits—often up to 15 working days.

The Solution

In an effort to increase services, the Bureau launched a public access portal to provide Michigan contractors with an automated application process for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits. The system automatically detects errors or incomplete information, ensuring that the initial application is complete and accurate.

The Result

The development community has embraced the benefits of the faster, on-line system and Bureau employees have been freed from an endless trail of permitting tasks. Today, the BCC processes 25% of its permits on-line, using Accela’s Web portal.