Corona, CA turned to AI to help smooth the permitting process. Similar technology may help streamline state and county processes in Maryland.
In response to California’s ambitious mandate to construct 2.5 million new housing units by 2030, the city of Corona has embraced artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline its housing permitting process. Recognizing that protracted permitting procedures can deter development and inflate costs, Corona officials have implemented new tools to automate and expedite plan reviews. This technological integration aims to alleviate administrative burdens on city staff, accelerate project approvals, and ultimately stimulate housing development to meet the state’s goals.
Maryland counties looking to accelerate housing development might consider taking a page from the City of Corona’s playbook by exploring how AI can modernize their permitting processes. Rather than overhauling everything at once, counties could start small—perhaps with a pilot project that uses AI to automate routine code checks or flag incomplete submissions. This kind of smart automation can significantly reduce delays, freeing up staff for more complex reviews and allowing developers to move projects forward more quickly. As national housing issues continue, counties must adopt more innovative strategies to effectively respond and adapt.
