FAQs

The current technology system used to support land development applications, permits, licenses and inspections has reached end of life and is not capable of meeting the city's modernization requirements. A new solution has therefore been acquired to modernize business processes and maintain security needs.

The new POSSE Land Management Solution will: 

• Provide a modernized technology solution that will transform business processes
• Enhance service to the citizens of Ottawa through ability to submit applications online
• Include accessibility features and bilingual public facing services
• Provide a secure online payment process through integration with Paymentus
• Provide an online builder portal and Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) payment function
• Coordination with the city on electronic permit submission and concurrent digital reviews 
• Self-serve access to submit, track, and receive information regarding applications and requests
• Provide real-time mobile functionality for field workers

This is a five year project with three releases. Each release will take approximately two years to complete.

Release 1  - Building Code Services (current to 2022)

Launch 1: (Oct 2021)

Access to Building Permit Records and Compliance Reports

Launch 2: (Aug 2022)

• Building Permits and related applications
• Building Enforcement and prosecutions
• Sign Minor Variance, Private Road Naming, Civic Number and Highway Name Change
• Request for Service (RFS) Building Code and sign related requests

Release 2 -  Planning Services and Right of Way, Heritage & Urban Design (2024)

Release 3 – Right of Way, Heritage & Urban Design and Committee of Adjustment (2025)

The new technology is expected to bring a number of positive impacts and benefits to all stakeholders. These include:

• A modernized technology solution with real-time mobile functionality that continuously adapts to changes in the industry 
• Enhanced service to the citizens of Ottawa through increased service options
• Ability to submit applications online using a mobile-friendly web interface that is both accessible and bilingual
• Ability to save time and make secure online payments through integration with Paymentus
• Provide an online builder portal and Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) payment function
• Coordination with the city on electronic permit, concurrent digital reviews and real-time remote access for field workers
• Self-serve access to submit, track, and receive information regarding building permit and land applications and requests
• Direct access to your city account information through MyServiceOttawa.ca  
• Existing city services will continue as the new technology solution is phased in.

More information and updates about this project can be obtained by subscribing to this Engage Ottawa site and by visiting Ottawa.ca.