Best Permitting & Licensing Tools in 2026

OpenGov provides a comprehensive Public Service Platform designed specifically for local and state governments. This platform integrates various critical functions, including enterprise asset management, permitting and licensing, budgeting and performance, procurement and contract management, tax and revenue collection, and financial management. It aims to modernize government operations, moving away from outdated systems and manual processes. The platform helps public servants operate more efficiently, adapt to changing constituent needs, and strengthen public trust through enhanced transparency and data-driven decision-making. It offers a unified experience across all modules, connecting critical workflows from budgeting and payroll to utility billing and grants management. OpenGov's solutions are built to address the unique demands of public sector finance and operations, providing tools for strategic planning, real-time insights, and compliance.

GovPilot is a comprehensive, cloud-based operating system designed specifically for local municipal and county governments. It aims to modernize government operations by automating administrative workflows, digitally managing data, and enhancing citizen engagement. The platform replaces paper forms and disparate software systems with an integrated, secure, and easy-to-use solution. GovPilot provides over 125 templated modules that cater to various government departments, from building and construction to public works and tax. It enables governments to unify data across departments, reduce internal processing times, and offer convenient online services for residents to report concerns, apply for permits, make payments, and track service requests. The platform also includes mobile apps for citizens and inspectors, GIS mapping capabilities, and robust cybersecurity measures.

ClearForms, formerly CityGrows, is a cloud-based government software solution designed to help public sector agencies replace outdated paper, PDF forms, and legacy software with an automated online permitting platform. It streamlines various government workflows, from building permits and business licenses to public safety applications and transportation demand management, making processes faster, more efficient, and accessible for both staff and the public. This platform is ideal for local government organizations of all sizes looking to increase compliance rates, reduce administrative burden, and improve service delivery. It offers a flexible workflow editor that allows agencies to create and manage virtually any type of permit, license, or internal process online, leading to significant time savings and improved operational transparency. ClearForms integrates online payments, digital signatures, automated notifications, and smart logic to enhance the user experience and accelerate permit issuance.

Accela provides a unified suite of cloud solutions specifically designed for state and local governments. It modernizes civic services by automating critical processes such as building permits, planning, business licensing, and regulatory compliance. The platform offers ready-to-deploy civic applications that are scalable and extensible, enabling agencies to streamline operations, reduce turnaround times, and enhance resident engagement. This robust and secure government software is built on a high-performance cloud platform, facilitating data sharing and collaboration across departments and agencies. It serves a wide range of government entities, from cities and counties to states, helping them adapt to evolving needs, improve service delivery, and achieve significant operational efficiencies and cost savings. Accela's solutions are designed for rapid implementation, reducing risk and accelerating time to value for government organizations.

Tyler Technologies provides an extensive suite of software and services specifically designed for government and K-12 education entities. These solutions aim to enhance public administration, improve safety, and streamline educational operations. The offerings span critical areas such as appraisal and tax management, civic services, enterprise resource planning (ERP), courts and public safety, and health and human services. The platform focuses on connecting data, processes, and people within a healthy digital infrastructure to make communities more responsive to resident needs. It supports various governmental levels, from small rural counties to large metropolitan cities, federal agencies, and special districts. Key benefits include increased transparency and accessibility, sustainable office practices, secure data management, and faster service delivery to the public. Tyler Technologies also emphasizes transformative technology, including AI built for government missions, secure cloud solutions, robust cybersecurity, and data & insights tools. These technologies are integrated to help public sector organizations proactively plan for change, achieve organizational goals, and operate efficiently while serving their constituents more effectively.

Cloudpermit is a comprehensive community development platform designed for local governments to modernize and simplify their permitting and licensing processes. It enables municipalities to accept and issue various permits online, including building, land use, and public works permits, as well as manage business licenses and renewals. The platform facilitates online application submissions, digital reviews, and communication with applicants, significantly reducing processing times and improving efficiency. This software is ideal for cities, counties, and other local government entities looking to transition from traditional paper-based or outdated on-premises systems to a cloud-based solution. It empowers staff to conduct mobile inspections, manage code enforcement cases, and centralize property data, fostering better inter-departmental collaboration. Citizens benefit from an accessible, user-friendly online portal for submitting applications and tracking their status, enhancing overall service delivery and transparency. Cloudpermit integrates with leading plan review tools like Bluebeam and DigEplan, allowing for flexible and efficient digital plan examination. It also supports multilingual communication, ensuring accessibility for diverse communities. The platform's offline-capable mobile inspection app further enhances productivity for field staff.

ViewPoint Cloud, now part of OpenGov, provides a comprehensive cloud-based platform designed to modernize government operations for permitting, licensing, and citizen services. It replaces outdated paper-based processes and legacy systems with a digital solution that enhances efficiency, transparency, and constituent engagement. The platform automates workflows, manages applications, facilitates inspections, and processes payments, all within a secure and accessible online environment. This solution is built for local and state government agencies looking to improve their administrative processes, reduce manual errors, and offer a more convenient experience for residents and businesses. By centralizing operations and providing self-service portals, ViewPoint Cloud helps governments reduce processing times, increase revenue collection, and foster greater trust and satisfaction within their communities. It supports a wide range of departments including building, planning, public works, and code enforcement.