Thursday, February 29
Streamlining Processes for Enhanced Efficiency and Service Delivery
Mayor Brett P. Smiley and the Department of Public Works (DPW) announced today the official transition to an online permitting system for all traffic and engineering permits. This move marks a significant step forward in streamlining the permitting process and enhancing efficiency for both applicants and the city.
“Together we are building a City Hall that is centered around providing modern, accessible city services that fully meet the evolving needs of our community,” said Mayor Brett Smiley. “The transition to an online permitting system underscores my ongoing commitment to offering innovative, efficient and high-quality city services for our residents and businesses.”
Starting this month, all traffic and engineering permits, including Sidewalk Contractors Licenses, Road Opening Permits, Physical Alteration Permits, Sewer Permits and Traffic Permits, will be exclusively processed through the online portal. Going forward, paper applications will no longer be accepted. Businesses applying for permits are strongly encouraged to set up a single account for their company and share the login information with relevant employees.
To set up an account or log in to an existing account, applicants can visit the Providence Permitting Portal at https://providenceri.portal.opengov.com/. Payments for permit and processing fees can be made online using credit cards or E-Check/ACH direct-debit from the bank. Once approved, permits will be issued electronically to the applicant’s account upon confirmation of payment receipt.
Key changes to note include the requirement for uploading photos of final restorations for Road Opening and Physical Alteration Permits. Additionally, Sidewalk Contractor Licenses should be applied for once and renewed for subsequent years.
These changes are in accordance with the RI Statewide Permitting Initiative. Detailed information, updates and tutorials for the Statewide Permitting Initiative can be found at http://permits.ri.gov/.
For further inquiries or assistance, applicants can contact the Department of Public Works at 401-680-7500 or in-person at 700 Allens Avenue, Providence, RI 02905.