Reducing Backlogs in Permitting: Proven Strategies That Work in Ontario

How Ontario is modernizing its building approvals to unlock housing and infrastructure growth

Backlogs in permitting have long been a bottleneck for development in Ontario, delaying housing starts, infrastructure projects, and economic growth. With Canada ranking 64th globally in ease of obtaining construction permits, the urgency to streamline approvals has never been greater. Fortunately, Ontario is taking bold steps to modernize its permitting systems—and the results are promising.

Here’s a look at the most effective strategies being implemented across the province to reduce permitting delays and improve transparency.

1. Embracing E-Permitting Systems

One of the most transformative changes is the shift to electronic permitting. The One Ontario initiative, led by AECO Innovation Lab and supported by RESCON and OBOA, aims to create a unified digital platform for all development approvals. This system allows:

• Centralized submission of applications, plans, and documents
• Real-time tracking of approval status
• Reduced need for physical paperwork and in-person visits

Municipalities adopting e-permitting have reported faster turnaround times and fewer errors in documentation.

2. Streamlining Multi-Agency Approvals

Ontario’s permitting process often involves up to 45 different government bodies. This complexity leads to confusion, delays, and inconsistent standards. One Ontario proposes a single portal for all approvals, regardless of municipality, which would:

• Standardize application formats
• Improve accountability and transparency
• Eliminate redundant submissions to multiple agencies

This approach is already gaining traction among developers and municipal leaders.

3. Setting Public Service Standards

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) recommends that municipalities establish publicly available service standards for permit processing. These benchmarks help:

• Set clear expectations for applicants
• Encourage departments to meet performance goals
• Increase public trust in the permitting system

Some municipalities have begun publishing average approval times and performance metrics to foster transparency.

4. Leveraging Professional Expertise

Ontario’s current system underutilizes licensed professionals such as architects and engineers. By empowering these experts to certify compliance with building codes and regulations, municipalities can:

• Reduce review times
• Minimize duplication of effort
• Ensure higher quality submissions

This strategy also aligns with the legal obligations outlined in the Architects Act and the Professional Engineers Act.

5. Prioritizing High-Impact Projects

To accelerate housing and infrastructure development, some municipalities are prioritizing permits for projects that address urgent needs—such as affordable housing or transit-oriented developments. This triage approach ensures that critical projects don’t get stuck in the queue.

Final Thoughts

Ontario’s permitting backlog isn’t just a bureaucratic headache—it’s a barrier to growth. But with initiatives like One Ontario, e-permitting adoption, and smarter workflows, the province is turning the tide. These proven strategies offer a blueprint for other jurisdictions facing similar challenges.

If you’re a developer, planner, or municipal leader, now’s the time to embrace innovation and help build a more efficient future.

Want to learn more about Ontario’s permitting reforms? Check out the Modernizing Building Approvals in Ontario report and the One Ontario initiative overview.