New online permit system improves efficiencies

A new online permitting and inspection system from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) has reduced the time required to process large batches of electrical permits from weeks to seconds.

The new system was launched in October 2019 by DLI's Construction Codes and Licensing Division, in partnership with Minnesota IT Services.

The system allows applicants to apply for, pay for and receive their permits instantly. On Dec. 11, 2019, more than 1,500 electrical permits from a single contractor were processed electronically in seconds. Previously, it would have required five weeks of staff time to process the paper applications.

Since the launch, nearly 95% of all electrical permits have been applied for online. Between Oct. 7 and Dec. 16, 2019, more than 23,000 electrical permits were issued online.

"The department's new IT systems have brought significant efficiencies and greater sustainability to both the department and the homeowners and businesses that engage with them," said DLI Commissioner Nancy Leppink.

The new system serves Minnesota's construction industry, including electrical contractors, high-pressure-piping contractors and single-family homeowners performing electrical work on their own homes. It also includes services for online plan review and issuance of building and plumbing permits. Users have a dashboard to track their projects and receive real-time inspection updates via email or text message.

Online capabilities for elevator permits, boiler permits and manufactured structures permits will be added in June 2020.