Business Portal - Permits

Business Portal - Permits

Purpose Statement

The Business Portal Permits feature enables service providers and businesses to submit permit applications directly through the First Due Business Portal. This digital workflow streamlines the permitting process by replacing paper-based applications with online submissions, reducing processing time, eliminating manual data entry, and providing real-time application tracking for both Authority Having Jurisdictions (AHJs) and business users. This automation improves efficiency for fire prevention staff while creating a more transparent and accessible permitting experience for the business community. 

Background Information

Traditionally, permit applications required businesses to submit paper forms in person or through mail, creating delays and administrative burdens for both applicants and AHJs. The Business Portal Permits feature modernizes this process by providing a self-service digital platform where registered businesses can submit applications 24/7. 

Required Permissions

Access to User Portals settings within Permit Types 
Business Portal User Level: 
  1. Active Business Portal account 
  2. "Permit" work type selected during registration or in Settings 

Video



Step-by-Step Guide


1. Business Portal - Click on "Sign In".






2. Click on First Due Logo in upper left corner.


Click on First Due Logo in upper left corner.



3. Click on Permits.


Click on Permits.



4. Click on Permits subsection.


Click on Permits subsection.



5. Click on Filter to sort list by specific fields.


Click on Filter to sort list by specific fields.



6. Utilize filter fields as needed.


Utilize fields as needed.



7. Click on Columns to further customize the list of permits.


Click on Columns to further customize the list of permits.



8. Click on Request New Permit to start a new permit request.


Click on Request New Permit to start a new permit request.



9. Enter the Project Location or property address where the work will be performed.


Enter the Project Location or property address where the work will be performed.



10. In the Permit Type dropdown, select the type of permit you're applying for

Info
Only permit types enabled by your AHJ will appear.


In the Permit Type dropdown, select the type of permit you're applying for (only permit types enabled by your AHJ will appear)



11. Read the Instructions section carefully - this contains AHJ-specific requirements and guidance.


Read the Instructions section carefully - this contains AHJ-specific requirements and guidance.



12. Click on Next to continue with Permit request.


Click on Next to continue with Permit request.



13. Enter Application notes. (required)


Enter Application notes. (required)



14. Review the complete application for completeness and accuracy and click on Request Permit.





15. Confirm your Submission by clicking on "Submit Permit"

Info
Once Submitted, changed may not be possible.





Best Practices

For Business Portal Users: 
  1. Ensure your business registration accurately reflects all services you provide and includes "Permit" as a work type if you intend to submit permit applications 
  2. Read all permit type instructions thoroughly before beginning your application - this will save time and reduce the likelihood of rejection or revision requests 
  3. Use the Save Draft feature liberally for complex applications that may require gathering information from multiple sources or team members 
  4. Gather all required documentation and attachments before starting your application to streamline the submission process 
  5. Keep your Business Portal contact information current so you receive timely notifications about application status changes 
  6. Check your permit application status regularly, especially in the days following submission, as AHJs may request additional information quickly 
  7. Maintain copies of all submitted applications and supporting documentation for your records 

Troubleshooting & FAQs 

Business Portal User:

Q: I don't see "Permit" as a work type option during registration 
  1. Verify your AHJ has enabled the Business Portal Permits feature - contact them if unsure 
  2. Check that at least one permit type has been configured for Business Portal submission by the AHJ 
  3. If you've already registered without selecting Permit, log in and add it through your Settings 
  4. Clear your browser cache and try refreshing the registration page 
  5. Contact the AHJ to confirm the feature is available for your jurisdiction 

Q: I can't find any permit types in the dropdown when creating an application 
  1. Verify you have "Permit" selected as a work type in your Business Portal Settings 
  2. Check with the AHJ to confirm they have enabled at least one permit type for Business Portal submission 
  3. Log out and log back in to refresh your available options 

Q: The permit creation modal doesn't display properly on my device 
  1. Try refreshing your browser (press F5 or Ctrl+R on Windows, Command+R on Mac) 
  2. Clear your browser cache and cookies, then try again 
  3. Ensure you're using a supported browser: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge (latest versions recommended) 
  4. Try accessing from a different device to determine if it's device-specific 
  5. Check your browser zoom level - reset to 100% if necessary 
  6. Disable any browser extensions that might interfere with the modal display 
  7. If issues persist, contact First Due Support with details about your browser and device 
Q: I saved a draft but can't find it 
  1. Navigate to Permits in your Business Portal menu 
  2. Look for applications with a "Draft" status 
  3. Use any filtering or sorting options to locate draft applications 
  4. Check that you're logged into the same account where you created the draft 
  5. If you still can't locate your draft, contact First Due Support 
Q: How long does it take for the AHJ to review my application? 
  1. Review times vary by jurisdiction based on workload and complexity 
  2. Check your permit application for any estimated timeframes provided by the AHJ 
  3. Monitor your application status regularly for updates 
  4. Contact the AHJ directly if your application has been pending for longer than expected timeframes 
  5. Ensure you've provided all required information to avoid delays 
Q: Can I edit my application after submitting it? 
  1. Once submitted, applications generally cannot be edited directly by business users 
  2. If you need to make changes, contact the AHJ through the appropriate communication channels 
  3. The AHJ may request revisions, which may allow you to update information 
  4. For significant errors, you may need to withdraw and resubmit the application 
  5. Always review applications carefully before clicking Submit 

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