Politics & Government
East Hampton Offers Online Process For Planning, Building Applications
"We are excited to take this important step forward in modernizing town government." The new, mandatory process kicked off this week.

EAST HAMPTON, NY — The process of submitting planning and building operations just took a step forward in East Hampton Town.
On Wednesday, the town announced the launch of its new online permitting and licensing OpenGov Portal, "part of an ongoing effort to modernize local government operations and improve the delivery of public services," town officials said.
As of April 28, all planning department applications must be submitted digitally through the OpenGov portal. Beginning May 19, all building department applications will also be required to be submitted online.
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The transition aims to make town services more accessible, efficient, and transparent, officials said.
The portal provides a "centralized, user-friendly platform" for residents, businesses, and contractors to submit applications, track progress, and communicate directly with town staff, officials said.
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The portal currently supports digital submissions for the planning department, building department, Architectural Review Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, planning board, ordinance enforcement, fire marshal, marine patrol, and Natural Resources Department, officials said.
Prior to submitting any application, users must first create an OpenGov account through the portal. Step-by-step instructions are available to help new users sign up, set up their profiles, and manage communications securely.
"We are excited to take this important step forward in modernizing town government," said East Hampton Town Supervisor Kathee Burke-Gonzalez. "The OpenGov Portal will make it easier and faster for residents and businesses to navigate the application process, while also improving transparency and service delivery. This is about using technology to meet people where they are and continue to build a responsive, modern local government."
Town Councilman Tom Flight, who has helped lead this effort, added: ""Transitioning to OpenGov brings greater convenience, better tracking, and faster application processes," Flight said. "It also helps the Town operate more efficiently and sustainably. We’re excited to see this improvement rolled out for the benefit of our residents and businesses."
The move to digital submission supports the town’s broader goals of streamlining services, enhancing communication, reducing paper use, and delivering more environmentally responsible operations; applicants will benefit from automatic status updates, online fee payments, and a clear, streamlined review process, officials said.
While digital submission is becoming mandatory for both planning and building applications, town officials said they recognize that some community members may need assistance during the transition. Help is available in person at town offices, by telephone, or by email. Staff members remain committed to offering support throughout the process.
To begin using the OpenGov Portal, create an account, and submit an application, click here.
Step-by-step signup instructions are available here.
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