Getting business permits in Quezon City now optimized with new processing system
Good news for Quezon City entrepreneurs: You may now expect to have an easier time renewing or applying for business permits.
Quezon City's new risk-based business permit processing system reduces red tape with a more specific classification method. Businesses are now categorized as low-risk, medium-risk, or high-risk depending on the nature of their operations, as well as how they will potentially impact public safety, health, and the environment.
"This risk classification is now the main basis for how fast business permits are processed and how inspections are scheduled—allowing the City Government to move faster for simpler, low-risk businesses while giving more attention to higher-risk activities," said the LGU in a statement.
Because of this new system, the processing of new business applications and changes in line of business now has a specific timeframe. Low-risk businesses have a turnaround time of three working days, seven days for medium-risk, and 20 days for high-risk.
However, business permit renewals, regardless of risk level, will continue to be processed within three working days; longer if there are violations or pending issues. This is in alignment with the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018, or RA 11032.
Apart from positively affecting processing deadlines, the risk classification system also changes the LGU's business inspection priorities.
While inspections required by law, including for fire safety, will continue to be done before a permit is issued, most inspections will now take place after the business owner is granted a permit.
High-risk businesses must undergo inspection annually; medium-risk businesses, every two years; and low-risk businesses, every three years. Establishments that carry multiple lines of business must fulfill the inspection requirements of the highest-risk activity they declare.
"This system helps us move faster for low-risk businesses and be more careful where it really matters," said QC Mayor Joy Belmonte.
