Skagit County to Launch New Online Permit Software
October 31, 2024
Skagit County Planning and Development Services is in process of transitioning to our new permitting software and new portal.
The new CSS portal requires that users create an account. Starting after noon on November 12th, the new CSS portal will be available for account creation.
Important Dates:
November 1st – 12th: Application submittals including revisions will not be processed until after November 12th.
November 13th: Invoices for projects that are in process prior to November 1st will be sent starting November 13th.
November 18th: Payments for new applications received from November 1st through November 12th will be invoiced starting November 18th.
Planning and Development Services is open during this transition and are available to assist you.
On November 12, 2024, the Skagit County Planning and Development Services Department plans to launch a new online permitting software from Tyler Technologies. Skagit County and Tyler Technologies have been working over the last year and half to build a system that will increase the efficiency of processing permits for both citizens and staff.
After November 12th, applicants will have the convenience of applying for permits via Skagit County’s website using Tyler Technology’s user-friendly platform: Civic Access. Civic Access increases transparency and efficiency by providing applicants with online access to permit applications, permit status updates, direct requests for inspections, pay invoices, and more. For those who prefer in-person transactions, applying for permits will still be an option at the Planning and Development Services permit counter with a new customer kiosk computer. Staff will be available to provide guided assistance during regular business hours.
The Planning and Development Services Department aims to streamline the permitting process for customers and staff to reduce processing times and create a more efficient submittal and approval process for our customers. The previous permitting software, Permits Plus, was installed in 1997 and has reached the end of its useful life. Soon, this software will no longer be updated and available by our vendor. The new software is more up to date to meet our current technology needs, has a user-friendly interface for both the customer and staff, and will ensure we are able to retain our historical permit data.
If you have any questions or concerns, you may connect with the Planning and Development Services Department at 360-416-1300 or pdscomments@co.skagit.wa.us.
 We're thrilled to announce the launch of our new online permitting system: Enterprise Permitting & Licensing (EPL), provided by Tyler Technologies. Skagit County and Tyler Technologies have been working over the last year and half to build a system that will increase efficiency for both Skagit citizens and Skagit County team members.
Civic Access bridges the gap between community and community development where citizens can have online access to information, apply for a permit, request an inspection, pay invoices, and more 24/7/365.
For those who prefer in-person transactions, applying for permits will still be available with our new customer kiosk at Skagit County Planning and Development Services, Permit Center with the guided assistance of our Permit Technicians and Planning Staff at 1800 Continental Place, Mount Vernon, WA, M-W, F 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. and Th 9 a.m. - 3: 30 p.m.
Acceptable forms of payment at Planning and Development Services or online include credit and debit. No cash will be accepted.
Why a new system
There are three main reasons why we are transitioning to a new permit processing software:
- The Planning and Development Services Department is aiming to streamline the permitting process for customers and staff, which will reduce processing times and create a more efficient submittal and approval process for our customers. There are also new Washington state law requirements to meet specific timelines for permit processing (Section 1, Effective 1/1/2025).
- Our current permit processing software, Permits Plus, was installed in 1997 and has reached the end of its useful life. Soon, this software will no longer be updated and available by the vendor. The new software is more up to date to meet our current technology needs, has a more user-friendly interface for both the customer and staff, and will ensure we are able to retain our historical permit data.
- The new software will provide increased transparency to the permit process and fees. Applicants will be able to easily see the requirements for submitting each permit and have instant online access to see where their submission is in the process for review and approval.
Key Project Milestones
- RFP Development – 2021-2022
- Contracted Tyler Tech EPL – March 2023
- Software configuration and building – NOW - November 1, 2024
- Train County Staff – NOW
- Turn off old system - November 1, 2024
- Provide training for citizens – November 4, 2024 and continued
- Turn on new system – November 12, 2024
How it Works
Our new online permitting and licensing system is powered by Tyler Technologies Enterprise Permitting and Licensing with Civic Access. This innovative platform allows you to apply for permits, track the status of your applications, and receive notifications—all from the comfort of your home or office. Designed to streamline processes and enhance convenience, our new system ensures faster processing times and better communication.
Here’s what you can expect from the process:
- Create an Account: Start by setting up your personal or business account on the Civic Access portal.
- Application Submission: Select the permit or license you need, fill out the online application form, and upload any required documents.
- Payment: Conveniently pay any associated fees online through a secure payment gateway.
- Review and Approval: Your application will be reviewed by the relevant division. You can track the status and receive updates directly through the portal.
- Receive Your Permit/License: Once approved, you will be able to download your permit or license directly from the system.
Join us in embracing this modern approach to public service, making it easier than ever to meet your permitting and licensing needs.
Why did you pick Tyler Tech EPL as your software?
After a thorough and competitive Request for Bid process, we selected Tyler Technologies Enterprise Permitting and Licensing (EPL) software. This decision was driven by our commitment to increased transparency, improved workflow efficiency, and the need to replace our aging system with a modern, robust solution. Tyler Technologies EPL stood out for its comprehensive features, user-friendly interface, and proven ability to streamline complex permitting processes. By adopting EPL, we are enhancing our operational transparency, enabling real-time insights, and ensuring seamless communication among all stakeholders. This transition to a state-of-the-art permitting system underscores our dedication to innovation and excellence in managing County permits.
What to expect
We will expect delays during the initial phases of implementation of the new software as teams adjust to new workflows and processes, undergo training, and address any initial technical challenges. Once our implementation is complete, we anticipate the following improvements:
- Efficiency: process automation and speed up permit processing.
- Transparency: real-time tracking of permit applications for better visibility and accountability.
- Communication: clear and effective communication from one point of contact.
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