City of Pittsburgh transitions online permitting platform to Eproval

The Department of Public Safety Office of Film and Event Management in the City of Pittsburgh has shifted its online permitting process to Eproval to allow for a more accessible and user-friendly permit application process. The move was made to better support citizens in the application process for Special Event, Block Party, and Film permits.

Enhancing permit accessibility

Eproval introduces several features that streamline the permitting process. City of Pittsburgh users can now manage, track, and submit their applications in real time; receive invoices and complete payments; and access support when needed—all from one central platform. The user-friendly platform allows applicants to seamlessly navigate through the system with greater ease and permit transparency.

“Eproval transforms our entire permitting process into one that is more intuitive and straightforward,” said Brian Katze, Manager of the Office of Film and Event Management (OFEM). “This move not only benefits applicants by saving them time and effort, but also allows our staff to be more efficient and focused on providing better service and support.”

Driving transparency in the permitting process

A key advantage of Eproval is its ability to increase transparency within the permitting process.

Applicants gain clear visibility into the status of their permits, understanding exactly what steps have been completed, and any outstanding items. This transparency is crucial for planning and coordination, ensuring that all parties are informed and can act proactively throughout the application process.

“Our collaboration with Pittsburgh showcases how technology can create a closer connection between governments and the communities they serve,” said Jonathan Thompson, Managing Director and Co-Founder at Eproval. “By focusing on user experience and operational efficiency, the City together with Eproval, is not only streamlining the application process but also enhancing the quality of civic engagement.”

Two-phase permit application

In conjunction with the launch of Eproval, OFEM will be instituting a new two-phase application approach to event permitting. The new process will allow event organizers to secure their preferred venue first, and then focus on the details of the event later. Previously, applicants would need to wait until many details of their event were in place before they could apply. Now, applicants can secure their venue and dates, then move forward with hiring all of their vendors and performers with the comfort of knowing they have a secured time and space.

Additionally, for the first time ever, OFEM will host a searchable calendar of city-permitted events that will be publicly available so residents can see what events are happening throughout the City. This forward-facing calendar will list all pending and approved event applications and should include event contact and website information.

City of Pittsburgh Film and Event Management

For more information on the Office of Film and Event Management or to apply for a Special Event, Block Party, or Film permit, visit: https://pittsburghpa.gov/publicsafety/ofem.

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