Austin, Texas, adopts AI-driven building permit software

After a successful pilot program, Austin has adopted AI-driven building permit software to speed up the building permitting process.

The city tested Archistar’s AI eCheck system that allows applicants to submit designs for a pre-check assessment. The software accurately understood the zoning code and implemented regulations accordingly during reviews of residential projects.

The system will not be used to review every element of building plans, but it will decrease the amount of data that permitting personnel need to scrutinize. Initially, the system will be limited to single-family residential properties, but the city plans to expand its use to other building types. Using this software, city reviewers can focus on unique aspects of an application and spend more time on customer service.

The city is pursuing a second pilot program with Archistar in partnership with the International Code Council (ICC) that is focused on automating compliance review of the International Building Code.