Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQs

Why did the city update this software?

The current system has been running since 1994 and is nearing the end of its usefulness. The new City of Boise Permitting and Licensing system, powered by Accela™, will allow integration with ePlanReview and other critical systems within the city, reducing duplication and improving transparency in the processing of applications.

The new permitting and licensing system will ultimately modernize how the Planning and Development Services department provides digital self-service options for citizens, including planning applications, building permits and building inspections.

Do I need to create a new account if I'm already a PDSOnline user?

Yes, all users will need to create an account in the new Permitting and Licensing system.

How do I create an account?

New users can register at permits.cityofboise.org. For additional information, please see our how-to video.

How do I reset my password?

See our "How do I Reset my Password?" section on our help page.

I own/work for a business – how do I associate my personal account with the business account?

Users can be associated with or removed from a business by PDS Staff. Please contact us for assistance.

Can I pay for multiple permits and licenses at once?

Users can pay for multiple licenses or multiple permits, but not both at the same time. Building, Planning and Public Works fees can be paid together, but License fees and Fire Department permit fees must be paid separately.

Where did eApply go?

All online applications that used to be available on PDSOnline have moved to the new City of Boise Permitting and Licensing site. You must register for an account before submitting any applications.

Can I start an application and come back to it?

Yes, registered users can save a partially completed application and return to it later. All saved applications can be found on the registered user's Dashboard under Work in progress.

Building FAQs

I have a state issued license/registration number (general contractor, electrical contractor, architect, etc.) that I need to attach to my account. How do I do that?

PDS maintains an updated list of Idaho State Contractor Registration and License numbers. Users can be associated with a Professional License or Registration number by PDS Staff. Please contact us for assistance.

How do I schedule inspections?

Only registered users who are listed as contacts on a Building or Trade permit may schedule inspections. Please see the "Scheduling Inspections" section in our User Guide.

Can I add private access information to my inspection request?

Yes, you may now include information in your inspection requests that cannot be viewed by anyone except PDS employees and inspectors. This can include garage codes, gate codes, or other necessary access information that should not be made available to other members of the public.

How do I get a copy of my permit?

All documents associated with a Building record can be accessed online. When viewing your record, use the Record Details dropdown list to access Documents. For additional information, please see our video on how to search for public records.

How do I submit electronic plans?

All electronic plan submittals will still be through our ePlanReview site. When completing your application, select the option to submit electronic plans. After you submit your application, you will receive an email inviting you to submit your electronic plans through ePlanReview.

Where are the online reports?

Reports are now located on the "Reports" tab at the top of the page on City of Boise Permitting and Licensing.

Where did ePay go?

All fees for building permits can be paid for through City of Boise Permitting and Licensing. Log in to your account and use the search function at the bottom of your Home page to pay fees for Building Permits and other associated records.

Click here to see our instructional video on adding fees to your shopping cart.

Planning FAQs

How do I submit electronic plans?

All electronic plan submittals will still be through our ePlanReview site. When completing your application, select the option to submit electronic plans. After you submit your application, you will receive an email inviting you to submit your electronic plans through ePlanReview.

Where are hearing dates listed?

All public meeting and hearing information for the City of Boise is listed here. If you are looking at a specific Planning application on City of Boise Permitting and Licensing, Hearing Dates will be listed under Additional Information on the Record Details page.

Where are the online reports?

Reports are now located on the "Reports" tab at the top of the page on City of Boise Permitting and Licensing.