OAKLAND, CA – The City of Oakland is excited to announce a significant enhancement in its permitting process with the introduction of ten new "rapid permits" available through the Online Permit Center. This initiative aims to streamline and expedite the issuance of permits, providing applicants with instant approval upon completion of the application and fee payment.
For these following listed permit types, gone are the days of waiting for approvals that could take days. Now, applicants can effortlessly apply for and receive these permit types in real-time. This new approach is part of Oakland's commitment to improving customer experience and efficiency in service delivery.
The newly added rapid permits include:
These additions complement our existing Lead-Based Paint Permit (LPB) and Solar Permits. Re-Roofing permits and Insulation certificates for insulation installation will also be added this quarter. Other additions will include roll out of a new Building Combination permit (B) for apartment unit remodels and minor commercial tenant improvements (TI); and Residential Building Combination (RBC) for less complex bathroom and kitchen remodels and other minor home improvements
Mayor Sheng Thao Stated: “The City of Oakland is committed to building more housing and making it easier for businesses to succeed. This is why my Administration has been working overtime to streamline our permitting process and make it easier for residents to build and start new businesses. Our economic growth depends on an innovative and effective Building & Planning Department, and I am so grateful for Director Bill Gilchrist, our permit ombudsman Robin Abad, and our amazing city staff for their commitment in improving our permitting process”
Applying for these permit types has never been more convenient. With just a few clicks, applicants can log in or easily register, submit their applications, make payments from their computer or mobile device, and witness the automatic issuance of their permits.
The Planning & Building Department of Oakland is dedicated to continuous improvement. In recent months, the department identified opportunities to automate dozens of permit types, leading to the consolidation of 24 permit types into six, simplifying the application process for residents and businesses alike.
As part of the City's ongoing commitment to enhancing customer experience, in 2024 the City will introduce a new Project Guidance Tool. This automated tool will help applicants understand what permits would be required for their proposed scope of work, provide information on requirements and the necessary technical reference materials, an estimate of the fees that would be assessed for the proposed project, and direct links to the appropriate applications; for a smooth and efficient experience.
Planning & Building Director Bill Gilchrist stated: “Our team has worked diligently to identify opportunities for improvement. The consolidation of permit types and the introduction of instant approvals demonstrate our dedication to simplifying processes. We are excited about the positive impact this will have on our residents, businesses, and institutions."
Oakland’s Permit Ombudsman Robin Abad stated: "Incorporating technology to automate permit processes is a crucial step in our journey towards a more connected and efficient city. We are committed to leveraging innovation to provide accessible and user-friendly services for the benefit of everyone in Oakland."
For more information, please visit the Online Permit Center here.