For Immediate Release: 3/26/2012 10:19 am
Worcester, MA (March 26, 2012) - Beginning April 1, the City's Department of Inspectional Services will offer a 10% discount to individuals (contractors, homeowners, business owners) who register and apply for a permit or license using the new Online Permit Center (whether done at kiosk located at Inspectional services or any other computer). This will be a limited one-time offer with an end date of December 31, 2012. The discount will be applied to the fee associated with the desired permit/license.
The new Online Permit Center went live in September. Since that time, approximately 400 users have registered to be able to apply and pay for nearly 20 different permits or licenses (from building, electrical, gas, mechanical to plumbing, etc.) via the City's website or at a conveniently located kiosk at 25 Meade Street.
The goal of moving all City operations toward an electronic permitting system is not only to improve the customer's experience but also to create efficiency among varying City departments and divisions saving staff time. Citizens are able to track the status of their permit as they move through a paperless approval process. All necessary information is coordinated electronically and customers can receive e-mail updates directly, informing them whether their application was received and/or approved. The customer is then able to print the permit from their home or office and is no longer required to walk applications from department to department for approval.
We are entering the next phase of implementation — which will include the Department of Public Works and Parks, followed by the Worcester Fire Department and then Planning and Regulatory Services. Beginning in April, citizens will be able to apply for permits and licenses related to water/sewer connections, excavation (street openings), sidewalk and street obstructions/closures and more.
We have developed a communication plan to ensure that citizens are aware of the system, and have held free training sessions for contractors and homeowners on how to use the system. We are also looking to work with building supply companies, such as Home Depot, Lowe's and others to assist in spreading the word and potentially, even placing a kiosk at their stores. We will promote the discount for first-time users via mailings, contractor meetings, website, Channel 12 and other mediums.
