One Standard.
Every Permit.

An open specification that makes construction permitting work the same way everywhere—whether you're a builder in Virginia or a software vendor in Texas.

39,000+
Jurisdictions in the U.S.
120
Days avg. permit timeline
$0
Cost to adopt the standard

What OpenPermit Does

OpenPermit is not software—it's a specification that any system can implement. Here's what it enables.

📋

Universal Application Form

A single permit application that works everywhere. Whether you're applying online, through software, or on paper—the same questions, the same format, every time.

🔌

Software Integration

Software companies can build once and connect everywhere. Jurisdictions get better tools without being locked into a single vendor.

Automatic Validation

Simple, code-compliant projects can be checked automatically—like filing taxes online. Reviewers focus their time on complex cases that need human judgment.

💬

Clear Communication

Messages, comments, and status updates flow through one channel. No more hunting through email threads to find what a reviewer asked for.

📊

Complete Records

Every submission, review, and inspection is recorded in a single, searchable history. Audits become simple. Nothing gets lost.

How It Works

From application to certificate of occupancy—one connected process.

1

Apply

Fill out the standard application form. Same questions whether you're online, using software, or submitting on paper.

2

Check

Your application is automatically checked for completeness. Simple projects that meet code can be fast-tracked.

3

Review

Reviewers look at your plans. If they have questions, you'll get a clear message—not a confusing email chain.

4

Permit Issued

Once approved, your permit is issued. Everyone who needs to know—you, your contractor, the inspector—gets notified.

5

Inspect

Request inspections as your project progresses. Results are logged with photos and timestamps—no paperwork to chase.

6

Complete

All inspections pass, certificate of occupancy issued. The entire history lives in one place, ready if you ever need it.

Who It's For

OpenPermit helps everyone involved in the permitting process.

🏗️

Builders & Contractors

Apply the same way everywhere. No more learning a new system for every jurisdiction. Track your permits in one place.

🏛️

Local Governments

Adopt modern tools without expensive custom development. Process permits faster. Give residents a better experience.

💻

Software Companies

Build once, deploy everywhere. Connect to any jurisdiction that supports the standard. No more one-off integrations.

Ready to Learn More?

OpenPermit is open source and free to use. Read the full specification on GitHub.

View on GitHub