Ontario Construction News staff writer
Kingston is among a few municipalities in Ontario launching an AI program aimed at enhancing transparency and consistency in reviewing building permit applications.
Starting August 31, Archistar AI Pre Check will be utilized during the intake phase for building permits. This program checks compliance with local zoning laws and building codes while ensuring that all submitted plans include necessary documentation.
AI Pre Check will be rolled out in two phases within the building permit review process:
Aug. 31: Low-rise buildings (single detached homes, semi-detached homes, duplexes, detached garages, sheds, and additional residential units) Oct. 31: Mid-rise buildings (row houses, stacked townhouses, and multiplexes)
Information sessions are planned before the rollout:
“The main priority in integrating AI Pre Check is to give applicants greater transparency around any issues or deficiencies with their submission by indicating what needs to be added or updated,” said Lisa Capener-Hunt, director of building services and chief building official.
This program benefits both staff and applicants by reducing processing times and improving service delivery.
“It’s beneficial for both sides,” says Capener-Hunt. “Applicants get clear feedback from the beginning and therefore have time to make corrections and submit a higher-quality application. There’s less back-and-forth required, the turnaround time is quicker, and staff can process applications more efficiently.”
Applications will continue to be submitted through the City’s Development and Services Hub (DASH), with no changes to the overall application process. After applicants submit their building permit or development application, building staff will use AI Pre Check to check the initial application for code compliance and ensure that all required documents are included.
Once complete, applicants will receive a detailed report indicating if any adjustments are necessary, promoting greater transparency in the review process.
The staff will still review every application thoroughly before making final decisions. The only point where AI is involved in reviewing applications is during submission intake.
Archistar has successfully implemented AI Pre Check in various cities across Canada like Ottawa, Burlington, Markham, Cambridge, Surrey, and Burnaby as well as locations in the United States and Australia. To align with local regulations on construction, AI Pre Check is customized for each community using it. In Kingston’s case, this program evaluates applications based on local zoning bylaws along with the Ontario Building Code.
The phased approach focuses initially on low-density residential projects such as single detached homes, semi-detached homes, detached garages, and additional residential units. The mid-rise buildings phase will be introduced in fall 2026.
This program serves as a screening tool to identify potential issues early on but won’t approve applications outright. All submissions will still need verification from qualified staff prior to final approval to guarantee regulatory compliance and safety standards.
“This tool is in no way a replacement for staff expertise. It’s a support mechanism to quickly identify incomplete or noncompliant applications while allowing staff to focus on the more complex aspects of an application,” says Capener-Hunt.
Review answers to frequently asked questions at Cityof Kingston. ca/DASH or by picking up information at Planning & Development Services located at 1211 John Counter Blvd. Offices are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a. m. to 4:30 p. m.
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