eFiling allows customers to prepare applications online, eliminating the need for customers to wait in line and pay for mailing costs, saving customers both time and money.

The Department’s eFiling program can be used to do the following:

1) Prepare Job Applications (PW1) Online
Applicants can use the eFiling system to fill out PW1 applications. The system replicates the PW1 applications and allows applicants to navigate from one screen to another seamlessly. Once completed, Department borough staff can quickly retrieve the information entered using the eFiling system through BIS, significantly reducing the amount of time it takes to process applications

2) Renew Permits & After-Hours Variances that Do Not Have Changes
Applicants can use the eFiling system’s eRenewal program to review existing permits and After-Hour Variances. They can then renew them online, pay the renewal fee and print the new permit / variance via BIS. Permits and/or After-Hours Variances cannot be renewed online if the scope of work has changed, the tradesperson or contractor is no longer in good standing with the Department or if there is an issue with the application. The following permits types cannot be renewed online at this time:

• Demolition permits
• Curb cut permits
• Homeowner permits
• Pre-BIS permits
• No-work permits
• Shed permits
• NB permits that do not have an active EQ Fence permit
• Permits that require a civil penalty or additional fee

3) Apply for and Obtain Electrical Permits Online
Applicants can use the eFiling system to file an electrical application for a new address or remove an electrical violation. Once the application is completed, applicants can pay for the application online and then print the permit out via BIS. Preparers can fill out applications, but only electricians registered with the Department can add an electronic seal/signature to the application. Electrical Permits for the following things cannot be filed online:

• Signs
• If special certification and/or approvals are needed
• Applications for non-building addresses (bus shelters, telephone booths, news stands, street lighting, sub-stations, etc.)

4) Submit Required Items Online (eSubmit)
Applicants can use the eFiling system’s eSubmit program to select required items including, Landmark letters and 5 day notices for excavation and soil testing reports. Required items not supported by eSubmit include: insurance liability confirmations and TR reports. Department staff have the ability to accept the submitted required items online, saving applicants trips to the borough office in certain instances.

5) Applicants can use the eFiling system to file Limited Alteration Applications (LAA)
Once the application is completed, applicants can pay for the application online and then print the permit out via BIS. Preparers can fill out applications, but only licensed master plumbers and licensed fire suppression contractors registered with the Department can add an electronic seal/signature to the application. LAA permits can be attained via eFiling for all LAAs except when:

• The property has an open violation for working without a permit
• Amending an existing application (PAA)
• Withdrawing an application
• Indicating a superseding applicant
• Legalizing existing work/conditions
• Doing work that requires the submittal of drawings

The Department is always working to expand eFiling options. Please check Building News and this site periodically for updates.