New tool will flag missing documents and potential compliance issues, but staff will make final decisions.
Kingston is bringing artificial intelligence into its building permit review process in an effort to make applications faster and more transparent.
The City will begin using Archistar AI PreCheck on Aug. 31 during the intake stage for building permit applications. The tool will screen submissions for potential zoning and Ontario Building Code issues and check whether required documents have been provided.
Applicants will receive a report outlining any issues that may need to be corrected, which the City says could reduce revisions and back-and-forth between applicants and staff.
The AI will initially focus on low-rise projects, including detached and semi-detached homes, duplexes, garages, sheds and additional residential units. A second phase covering row houses, stacked townhouses and multiplexes is planned for Oct. 31.
City staff will continue to review every application and make final decisions. The AI will only be used during the initial screening process.
The City says the program is intended to support housing development by helping applications move through the review process more efficiently.
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