Online Application Portal Instructions

Welcome to the City of Peterborough's Online Permit Application Portal. This portal allows the public to easily apply for various building and planning permits. It streamlines the entire process, from registration to permit issuance, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for applicants and City staff alike.

1. Purpose

This portal allows you to submit building, planning and curb cut permit applications online. It also accepts Driver registrations for driving service providers in the City.

You can register, submit necessary documentation, make payments, and track the status of your application through every step of the process. The portal is integrated with the City’s AMANDA permitting software to manage applications and communications with City staff.

This information will focus on the building permit process, but is very similar to the process for other application types.

2. Overview of the Online Permit Application Portal

The portal allows you to:

• Register for an account
• Apply for permits for your property or as an authorized agent for another property
• Submit required documents and application forms
• Pay required fees
• Interact with City staff throughout the process

The portal ensures your application is processed efficiently, and you can track the progress of your application at any time.

3. Portal Access and Registration

Access the Portal:

The portal is available on the City of Peterborough’s website or at onlineapplications.peterborough.ca.

Registering for an Account:

To begin the application process, you must first register for an account. After registration, you can submit multiple applications.

4. Application Process

Choosing the Project Type:

Upon logging in, select the type of project you’re proposing (e.g., Part 3 or Part 9 buildings, Additional Residential Units, residential decks, etc.). You will then select the property for which the permit is being applied. A map is available to help confirm the correct property.

Review Required Documents and Fees:

The portal will display a list of documents and fees based on your application type. Review these early in the process to ensure your application is complete.

Entering Application Information:

Enter your information (applicant and property owner) and provide project details, such as:

• Area of work
• Number of dwelling units (if applicable)
• Description of the proposed work

Downloading and Signing the Application Form:

After entering your details, download the prescribed application form. It will be pre-populated with the information you’ve entered. Review the form, ensure all details are correct, and sign it.

Uploading Required Documents:

Depending on the specifics of your application (e.g., conservation authority or heritage approval), you’ll need to upload additional documents. The application form must always be included. File names may not include special characters (i.e. $,!@&%)

Payment of Administrative Fee:

The required administrative fee must be paid before the application will be processed. Payment can be made securely through the portal.

Submitting the Application:

Once all documents and fees are submitted, your application will be reviewed by the Permit Intake staff.

5. Review and Processing of Application

Permit Intake Staff Review:

Permit Intake staff will check your submission for completeness using a checklist. If additional information is required, staff will request it through the portal, and you’ll be notified.

Invoice for Building Permit Fees:

After the intake staff review, you will receive an invoice for the application fee. Payment must be made before your permit can proceed.

Plan Review and Zoning Review:

Your application will be reviewed by Plan Review and Zoning Review staff (if applicable). Each staff member will review the documents using a checklist. If further information is needed, they will request it through the portal.

Issuance of Building Permit:

After both reviews are complete and the application is deemed ready, your building permit will be issued.

6. Permit Issuance

Approved Documents and Permit Card:

Once your permit is issued, approved plans and any relevant documents will be uploaded to the portal. You will be notified via email and through the portal. A copy of the approved plans must be displayed on-site during construction.

Inspector Information:

You’ll be provided with the names and contact information of your assigned inspectors. Inspection notes and schedules will also be available on the portal.

7. Monitoring and Inspection

Tracking Submissions and Status:

You can monitor the status of your application and all communication (invoices, submissions, and notifications) at any time through the portal. All updates will also be sent to you via email.

Inspection Process:

Inspections will be scheduled throughout the construction process to ensure compliance with the approved permit. Inspection notes will be available on the portal for your reference.

8. Permit Closure

Once all required inspections are complete and the project is in compliance, your permit will be marked as Closed in the portal. You will receive a final notification confirming that your project is complete. 

9. Portal Support

If you have any questions or need assistance during the application process, you can contact our portal support team at portalsupport@peterborough.ca. Support is available to assist you with application issues, document uploads, or general inquiries.

10. Key Contacts

Permit Intake Staff: Jennifer Stern, jstern@peterborough.ca

Plan Review Staff: Ivan Etcuban, ietcuban@peterborough.ca

Zoning Review Staff: Andrea Stillman, astillman@peterborough.ca

Portal Support Email: portalsupport@peterborough.ca

This portal is designed to provide a transparent and efficient process for obtaining building and planning permits in the City of Peterborough. Whether you’re applying for a residential deck or a larger building project, the portal streamlines all steps for both applicants and City staff.