The State of California will provide free artificial intelligence (AI) software to the City and County of Los Angeles in order to help them streamline permit approvals and speed up re-building in areas hit by the January wildfires.
“The software, created by Archistar, will be provided free of charge to the local governments and to users through a partnership between the state and philanthropic partners including LA Rises and Steadfast LA with contributions from Autodesk and Amazon,” according to the Governor’s Office.
“The software uses computer vision, machine learning, and automated rulesets to instantly check designs against local zoning and building codes in the assessment process for building permits. This technology will allow property owners to pre-check their building plans before submission to ensure they submit valid plans, thus avoiding frustrating delays and expediting the review process once received by city or county staff.”
“Together, government and philanthropy are standing with our community to ensure a safe, swift, and lasting recovery from the Palisades and Eaton Fires,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath in a statement. “With new AI-powered tools and LA County’s One-Stop Permitting Centers, we’re cutting red tape to help residents rebuild and return home sooner. I’m grateful to Governor Newsom, Steadfast LA, and LA Rises for their investment in our recovery.”
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said she too had recently signed an Executive Directive in favor of an AI pilot program to streamline the post-fire permitting process.
“With the [state’s] announcement of this AI solution, we’re infusing new technologies into City Hall processes to ensure nothing stands in the way of families getting home – and to keep our recovery effort on track to be the fastest in modern California history,” she added. “I thank Governor Newsom and our County partners for their collaboration on this exciting effort.”
California isn’t the first to use AI to streamline the permit approval process. Similar techniques are being used in Virginia, Honolulu, Hawaii, Maricopa County, Arizona, more than 20 other municipalities across North America and Australia.