The City of Kamloops is taking a major step forward in modernizing its building and development permit process with the upcoming launch of a fully digital ePermit system. It will make it easier and more convenient for applicants to submit, track, and manage permits online.
The initiative, led by the Development, Engineering, and Sustainability Department, aligns with the City’s 2023–2026 Council Strategic Plan to streamline services and improve customer experience.
“We’re pleased to be able to better support homeowners, builders, developers, tradespeople, and registered professionals applying for permits,” said Jason Dixon, the City’s Building and Engineering Development Manager. “Customers will be able to apply for permits at their convenience, make payments online, receive real-time status updates, and get notifications as their permits move through the system.”
A More Transparent and Efficient Process
The new ePermit platform is designed to simplify what has traditionally been a paper-heavy and time-consuming process. With digital submissions, applicants can clearly see what supporting documents are required, track what’s been submitted, and receive immediate confirmation when an application is accepted.
“Convenience and record-keeping are two big advantages,” Dixon said in an interview. “From home or the office, applicants can upload everything they need. And for our staff, the system helps ensure information is automatically organized and stored—reducing the risk of anything going missing.”
This end-to-end digital approach will also integrate with the City’s current electronic inspection process, offering a seamless experience from application to final occupancy approval.
Supporting All Users—New and Experienced
While the system is expected to be welcomed by many—particularly tech-savvy applicants and industry professionals—Dixon emphasized that the City remains committed to supporting users who prefer traditional methods.
“There will always be an option to come in, speak to someone, and even submit a paper application if needed,” he said. “Some homeowners may only go through this process once in their life, and we want to make sure they feel supported.”
Community Engagement and Upcoming Information Session
To help the public better understand the new system, the City is hosting an information session on Wednesday, June 25, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm at the Sports Centre Lounge in the McArthur Island Sport and Event Centre. Attendees will be able to view visual examples of the online platform and speak directly with staff about how the system works.
The City is also inviting feedback through a short online survey, open until July 9, at LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca/EPermit. Users can also register to beta test the system and help identify areas for improvement.
The system is currently under development, with a soft launch planned for fall 2025 and full implementation expected by December 2025.
“We’re the ones receiving the applications, not necessarily the ones making them,” Dixon noted. “That’s why community feedback—especially from those in the building industry—is so important. It helps us catch blind spots and fine-tune the system before it goes live.”
