Quick Overview
- 1#1: Accela - Provides a comprehensive cloud-based platform for managing building permits, licensing, inspections, and code enforcement in municipalities.
- 2#2: OpenGov - Offers modern cloud permitting and licensing software that streamlines application reviews, workflows, and reporting for local governments.
- 3#3: Tyler Technologies - Delivers integrated public sector solutions for building permits, plan reviews, inspections, and citizen self-service portals.
- 4#4: CivicPlus - Enables online permit applications, processing, and management through an intuitive portal for municipal governments.
- 5#5: BS&A Software - Integrates building permit tracking, property assessments, and compliance management in a unified municipal software suite.
- 6#6: CentralSquare - Supports community development with tools for permitting, inspections, and public works coordination.
- 7#7: GovPilot - Provides all-in-one cloud SaaS for small municipalities to handle permit applications, reviews, and digital workflows.
- 8#8: Avolve Software - Specializes in electronic plan review, permitting automation, and collaboration tools for building departments.
- 9#9: Cloudpermit - Digitizes the entire building permit lifecycle from submission to issuance and inspections for governments.
- 10#10: Comcate - Manages code enforcement, licensing, and permitting processes with mobile-enabled workflows for municipalities.
Tools were rigorously evaluated based on functionality, user experience, integration capabilities, and value, ensuring a comprehensive guide that balances depth with practicality for municipal stakeholders.
Comparison Table
Municipal building permit software simplifies regulatory workflows, supporting efficient permit management for local governments. This comparison table assesses top tools including Accela, OpenGov, Tyler Technologies, CivicPlus, BS&A Software, and others, highlighting features, scalability, and usability to guide readers in selecting the right solution.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Accela Provides a comprehensive cloud-based platform for managing building permits, licensing, inspections, and code enforcement in municipalities. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | OpenGov Offers modern cloud permitting and licensing software that streamlines application reviews, workflows, and reporting for local governments. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 3 | Tyler Technologies Delivers integrated public sector solutions for building permits, plan reviews, inspections, and citizen self-service portals. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | CivicPlus Enables online permit applications, processing, and management through an intuitive portal for municipal governments. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | BS&A Software Integrates building permit tracking, property assessments, and compliance management in a unified municipal software suite. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | CentralSquare Supports community development with tools for permitting, inspections, and public works coordination. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 7 | GovPilot Provides all-in-one cloud SaaS for small municipalities to handle permit applications, reviews, and digital workflows. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Avolve Software Specializes in electronic plan review, permitting automation, and collaboration tools for building departments. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | Cloudpermit Digitizes the entire building permit lifecycle from submission to issuance and inspections for governments. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Comcate Manages code enforcement, licensing, and permitting processes with mobile-enabled workflows for municipalities. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
Provides a comprehensive cloud-based platform for managing building permits, licensing, inspections, and code enforcement in municipalities.
Offers modern cloud permitting and licensing software that streamlines application reviews, workflows, and reporting for local governments.
Delivers integrated public sector solutions for building permits, plan reviews, inspections, and citizen self-service portals.
Enables online permit applications, processing, and management through an intuitive portal for municipal governments.
Integrates building permit tracking, property assessments, and compliance management in a unified municipal software suite.
Supports community development with tools for permitting, inspections, and public works coordination.
Provides all-in-one cloud SaaS for small municipalities to handle permit applications, reviews, and digital workflows.
Specializes in electronic plan review, permitting automation, and collaboration tools for building departments.
Digitizes the entire building permit lifecycle from submission to issuance and inspections for governments.
Manages code enforcement, licensing, and permitting processes with mobile-enabled workflows for municipalities.
Accela
enterpriseProvides a comprehensive cloud-based platform for managing building permits, licensing, inspections, and code enforcement in municipalities.
Accela's no-code configuration engine, allowing agencies to customize complex workflows without developer resources.
Accela Civic Platform is a leading cloud-based government software solution that automates municipal building permitting, planning, zoning, licensing, and code enforcement processes. It provides end-to-end workflow management, from online permit applications and plan reviews to inspection scheduling, mobile field tools, and citizen self-service portals. With deep GIS integration and AI-driven insights, Accela enables agencies to improve efficiency, compliance, and public engagement across large-scale operations.
Pros
- Highly configurable no-code/low-code workflows tailored to municipal needs
- Robust mobile apps and citizen portals for streamlined inspections and submissions
- Proven scalability with integrations like GIS, ERP, and asset management systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and customization
- Enterprise-level pricing can be prohibitive for smaller agencies
- Occasional reports of rigid support response times during peak seasons
Best For
Large municipalities, counties, and state agencies requiring a scalable, comprehensive permitting platform with advanced automation.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on modules, users, and agency size; typically starts at $100,000+ annually with implementation fees.
OpenGov
enterpriseOffers modern cloud permitting and licensing software that streamlines application reviews, workflows, and reporting for local governments.
AI-powered Voyage platform for intelligent permit routing, auto-review, and predictive insights
OpenGov Permitting & Licensing is a cloud-based platform tailored for local governments to streamline municipal building permits, planning, zoning, licensing, and code enforcement processes. It features an intuitive online portal for citizens and contractors to submit applications, pay fees, and track status in real-time, alongside automated workflows and mobile inspection tools for staff. The software integrates seamlessly with GIS, ERP systems, and other govtech solutions, offering robust analytics to enhance transparency and efficiency.
Pros
- Intuitive self-service portal reduces applicant inquiries and speeds up submissions
- Powerful mobile app with offline capabilities for field inspections
- Advanced GIS integration and analytics for data-driven decision-making
Cons
- High implementation costs and timeline, often 6-12 months
- Pricing can be prohibitive for very small municipalities
- Occasional customization limitations in complex workflows
Best For
Mid-to-large municipalities seeking a scalable, integrated platform for high-volume permitting with strong citizen engagement tools.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on modules, users, and jurisdiction size; annual costs typically range from $50,000+ with quote required.
Tyler Technologies
enterpriseDelivers integrated public sector solutions for building permits, plan reviews, inspections, and citizen self-service portals.
Enterprise-wide integration across Tyler's civic suite for unified data management and cross-departmental workflows
Tyler Technologies offers a comprehensive enterprise software suite tailored for local governments, with its Building and Permitting solution automating the full lifecycle of municipal building permits from application submission to final inspections. Key functionalities include digital plan reviews, automated workflows, mobile inspector tools, and compliance tracking with building codes. Integrated with GIS mapping and other Tyler civic modules, it enables efficient data sharing across departments for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Robust end-to-end permitting workflows with automation and mobile support
- Deep integration with GIS, ERP, and other municipal systems
- Proven scalability and reliability for government use with strong compliance tools
Cons
- High upfront implementation and customization costs
- User interface can feel complex or dated for non-technical staff
- Pricing lacks transparency and scales steeply with municipality size
Best For
Mid-to-large municipalities needing an integrated, scalable platform for building permits alongside other civic services.
Pricing
Custom enterprise SaaS pricing; annual costs typically $50,000–$500,000+ based on modules, users, and jurisdiction size.
CivicPlus
enterpriseEnables online permit applications, processing, and management through an intuitive portal for municipal governments.
Unified citizen portal integrated with government websites for one-stop permitting and civic services
CivicPlus offers a comprehensive municipal permitting and licensing platform designed to streamline building permit processes for local governments. Residents can submit applications online, upload documents, pay fees, and track status in real-time through a user-friendly citizen portal. Government staff benefit from workflow automation, inspection scheduling, mobile apps for field use, and robust reporting to manage compliance and operations efficiently.
Pros
- Seamless citizen self-service portal reduces staff workload
- Mobile app for inspectors enables real-time updates and photos
- Strong integrations with GIS, payments, and CivicPlus websites
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and can be higher for smaller municipalities
- Initial setup and training require significant time investment
- Advanced custom workflows may need additional modules
Best For
Mid-sized municipalities seeking an integrated permitting solution with strong website and mobile capabilities.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $5,000-$20,000 annually depending on municipality size and features; includes implementation support.
BS&A Software
enterpriseIntegrates building permit tracking, property assessments, and compliance management in a unified municipal software suite.
Unified platform integrating permitting directly with property assessing and GIS for automated data flow and compliance checks
BS&A Software offers a comprehensive ERP platform tailored for local governments, with its building permit module streamlining the entire permitting lifecycle from application submission to final inspection and certificate issuance. The solution includes online portals for citizens and contractors to apply for permits, upload documents, and track progress in real-time, while integrating with GIS, assessing, and taxing systems for holistic municipal management. It supports code enforcement, plan review workflows, and mobile inspection tools to enhance field operations.
Pros
- Deep integration with other municipal functions like assessing and taxing
- Robust mobile app for inspectors and field staff
- Customizable workflows and strong reporting capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and training
- Pricing is opaque and customized, often higher for smaller municipalities
- Limited third-party integrations compared to more modern cloud-native solutions
Best For
Mid-sized U.S. municipalities needing an all-in-one ERP with reliable permitting tied to financial and property systems.
Pricing
Custom quote based on municipality size, user count, and modules; typically annual subscriptions starting at $20,000+ for basic permitting setups.
CentralSquare
enterpriseSupports community development with tools for permitting, inspections, and public works coordination.
Seamless end-to-end workflow integration across permitting, inspections, and enforcement with real-time GIS visualization.
CentralSquare provides comprehensive public sector software solutions, with its Community Development suite focusing on municipal building permit management, including automated workflows for applications, plan reviews, inspections, and issuance. The platform integrates permitting with licensing, code enforcement, and GIS mapping to streamline municipal operations. Designed for government agencies, it supports compliance with building codes and enhances inter-departmental collaboration.
Pros
- Deep integration with GIS, financials, and other gov modules
- Robust permitting workflows and compliance tools
- Scalable for mid-to-large municipalities
Cons
- Complex implementation and customization process
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Higher cost structure for smaller agencies
Best For
Mid-sized municipalities needing an integrated platform for permitting, inspections, and community development processes.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on modules, users, and deployment; typically annual subscriptions starting at $50,000+ for mid-sized setups—contact sales for quotes.
GovPilot
specializedProvides all-in-one cloud SaaS for small municipalities to handle permit applications, reviews, and digital workflows.
No-code workflow builder for custom permit processes without IT dependency
GovPilot is a cloud-based civic management platform tailored for municipalities, offering comprehensive tools for building permit processing, including online submissions, digital plan reviews, and automated workflows. It supports mobile inspections, GIS integration for spatial analysis, and a citizen self-service portal to enhance transparency and efficiency. The software streamlines the entire permit lifecycle from application to issuance, reducing paperwork and approval times.
Pros
- Robust automation for permit workflows and approvals
- Mobile app enables real-time field inspections
- GIS integration for location-based permit tracking
Cons
- Custom pricing lacks transparency and can be costly for small towns
- Steeper learning curve for non-tech-savvy staff
- Limited advanced analytics compared to top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized municipalities seeking an all-in-one digital solution for permit management and civic services.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription; scales with modules, users, and municipality size, often starting around $500-$2,000/month.
Avolve Software
specializedSpecializes in electronic plan review, permitting automation, and collaboration tools for building departments.
No-code workflow builder that allows departments to create and modify processes without developer assistance
Avolve Software offers a robust permitting and licensing platform designed specifically for municipal governments to manage building permits, code enforcement, inspections, and planning processes. It features an intuitive citizen portal for online applications, automated workflows, and mobile tools for field inspectors to streamline operations from submission to approval. The solution supports integrations with GIS, financial systems, and third-party tools, making it suitable for digitizing legacy paper-based systems.
Pros
- Comprehensive workflow automation reduces manual processing
- Strong mobile inspection capabilities for field staff
- Flexible no-code configuration for custom municipal needs
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for initial setup and training
- Pricing can be higher for smaller municipalities
- Limited advanced analytics compared to top-tier competitors
Best For
Mid-sized municipalities seeking a customizable, all-in-one permitting solution with strong integration options.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at around $10,000-$50,000 annually depending on modules, users, and municipality size.
Cloudpermit
specializedDigitizes the entire building permit lifecycle from submission to issuance and inspections for governments.
AI-assisted digital plan review with collaborative markup and automated compliance checks
Cloudpermit is a cloud-based permitting and licensing platform tailored for municipalities, enabling streamlined online submissions for building permits, plan reviews, inspections, and code enforcement. It features automated workflows, mobile apps for field staff, GIS integration, and self-service portals for citizens and contractors. The software helps reduce processing times, improve compliance tracking, and enhance interdepartmental collaboration.
Pros
- Robust mobile inspection tools with offline capabilities
- Seamless GIS and third-party integrations for data accuracy
- User-friendly citizen portal for 24/7 permit applications
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and opaque without demos
- Steeper learning curve for non-technical municipal staff
- Limited customization options for very small jurisdictions
Best For
Mid-sized municipalities seeking a scalable, digital-first solution to modernize permitting without heavy IT overhead.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on municipality size, users, and modules; typically starts at $10,000+ annually with implementation fees.
Comcate
specializedManages code enforcement, licensing, and permitting processes with mobile-enabled workflows for municipalities.
Unified platform combining permitting, licensing, and code enforcement with automated workflows and mobile inspection tools
Comcate is a cloud-based software platform tailored for municipal governments, specializing in building permitting, licensing, code enforcement, and inspections. It automates workflows from permit application submission through plan review, issuance, and field inspections via a mobile app. The solution integrates with GIS systems, online payments, and document management to streamline municipal operations.
Pros
- Robust workflow automation for permitting and inspections
- Mobile app enables efficient field operations for inspectors
- Strong integrations with GIS, payments, and third-party tools
Cons
- User interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
- Steep learning curve for setup and customization
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be costly for smaller municipalities
Best For
Mid-sized municipalities seeking a reliable, integrated platform for permit management and code enforcement without enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; modular subscriptions typically range from $10,000–$50,000 annually based on users, modules, and municipality size.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools provide strong options for managing municipal building permits, with Accela leading as the top choice for its comprehensive cloud-based platform that unifies permits, inspections, and code enforcement. OpenGov and Tyler Technologies follow, excelling in modern workflow streamlining and integrated public sector support, making them excellent alternatives for different operational needs. Ultimately, the best fit depends on specific municipality requirements, but Accela's versatility and depth stand out as a top pick for many.
Take the next step in optimizing your permit processes—explore Accela to experience its all-encompassing capabilities and streamline your municipal operations effectively.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison