Service improvements for building & development

Getting permits, approvals, and information shouldn't be complicated. That's why we are making it easier to build and grow in Winnipeg. Here's how we're doing that.

Digital applications & approvals

Permits and development applications

• Permits Online is a one-stop shop to manage the permit process. The customer portal is mobile-friendly, accessible and uses secure, cloud-based digital technology. View the news release.
• A pilot project tested an automated tool that checks building plans to see if they follow zoning rules. The tool gives a quick report showing what passes and what needs fixing. This helps speed up the review process and saves time for builders and City staff. View the news release.
• The Development Policy Search tool lets users search an address to see if any bylaws, regulations or guidelines apply.

Inspections

• Launched the Alternate Video Inspections Program to provide a convenient way to do residential inspections. City inspectors use informational drawings and a smart phone. 
• Launched online inspection request forms:
  • Commercial Inspection Request Form
• Housing Inspection Request Form
• Launched the Residential Mechanical Photo Submission Program to make inspections easier for licensed electrical contractors. Photos and documents can be submitted online to complete inspections. No registration is needed.

Permit data

• Launched the permit application processing times dashboard to help users track permit processing times. It shows the average number of days it takes to confirm a complete application and to make a decision.

Reducing red tape

• Streamlined the development permit process and amended the Zoning Bylaw to reduce the number of projects that need a development permit. See the development permits website for the list of current development permit exemptions. View the news release.  
• Amendments to the Winnipeg and Downtown Winnipeg Zoning By-laws will speed up housing construction and increase housing density in existing neighbourhoods. View the news release. 
• The Malls and Corridors Multi-Family Development Planned Development Overlay (PDO) is an optional development path. Construction can happen without a public hearing. Developers still need appropriate permits to build. The PDO guides development capacity, site design, building design and landscaping. View the news release.
• Created a free, simplified process for seasonal patio spaces. This supports restaurants and licensed manufacturers with tasting rooms.
• Streamlined the occupancy permit process. Building occupancy permits for a change in tenant/occupant only are no longer needed.
• Streamlined the demolition permit process. We enable residential demolition permits with no building permits to be processed by the Public Service. A Public Hearing is not needed.
• Streamlined Variance C applications. This enables approval by the Public Service instead of a Public Hearing.
• Reduced processing times for Winnipeg Electrical By-law requirements for solar photovoltaic systems.
• Sped up the permit process for personal care homes and visitation rooms.

Improved communication

• Public notice signs for variances and conditional uses were updated to make them easier to understand.
• Launched self-service forms for residents to report questions and concerns. People get connected to the department instead of contacting 311.
• Launched an improved phone system to connect customers with the right staff members to discuss development, building, trade permits, and inspections. This includes automated call-back services and redirect functionality for housing inspection inquiries.
• We continue to expand on Information Bulletins. Improvements help explain building regulations, bylaws and codes.