Denver launches an AI tool that pre-checks building permit applications

What did Denver launch?

The City and County of Denver launched StartSmart: Application Intake Assistant on November 5, 2026. It is a free, web-based tool that checks building permit and formal site development plan applications for completeness and highlights errors or missing information before the application moves to plan review.

Does it approve permits?

No. The city says the tool does not replace intake or plan review by staff, who still decide whether an application is ready for review and whether a project gets a permit.

Which applications does it cover?

At launch it covers building permits and formal site development plans. Denver says more application types are expected in 2027.

Why does it matter if you are planning a remodel?

Incomplete applications are a common reason a permit stalls before anyone reviews the actual plans. A pre-check that answers in minutes rather than days mostly helps homeowners and small contractors who file a few permits a year and do not know every local requirement. If you are outside Denver, the useful habit is the same: ask your permit office for its completeness checklist before you submit.