The Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Industrial Compliance has launched a new online customer portal designed to streamline operations and improve service for its customers, whether they want to apply for a building permit, request an inspection or pay a fee.

The new customer portal represents an upgrade in how the division serves its customers’ various needs, offering a secure, reliable and efficient platform for managing all compliance-related activities, according to a news release. The portal is available now by visiting the division’s webpage at com.ohio.gov/DIC.

One of the most significant benefits is the transition to fully paperless processes, according to the division. The portal will save customers time because, instead of waiting for documents to arrive via traditional mail, customers now will receive items such as permits and invoices electronically and receive an email notification alerting users to their availability. The portal also gives customers easy and convenient 24/7 access to documents from their electronic devices, according to the release.

The division currently serves more than 100,000 customers across the state annually, including construction and building professionals, business and property owners, and public agencies.

“We are committed to providing our customers with the tools they need to succeed while ensuring compliance requirements are met efficiently,” said Robb Coventry, superintendent of the Division of Industrial Compliance. “This new portal demonstrates our dedication to innovation and providing our customers with an excellent service experience. By transitioning to this portal, we are eliminating barriers and creating opportunities for businesses so they may operate more effectively.”

The portal delivers three core advantages that directly benefit users, according to the division:

• Paperless system. Users can manage applications, payments, permits, certificates, licenses and documents online.
• 24/7 access. Customers can apply for permits, access documents, request inspections and pay fees at their convenience, even outside normal hours of operation and during the weekend.
• Enhanced security measures. OHID integration provides enhanced protection for sensitive information and transactions. The new portal requires customers to have an OHID and email address connected to the account.

Because the portal is paperless, the division now accepts only electronic checks or credit cards for all transactions, the release stated.