The Department of Construction's proposal, submitted to the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee on 18/5, outlines a system to be deployed on VNPT Ho Chi Minh City's digital infrastructure, without using state budget funds. The software is expected to digitize the entire process of receiving, processing applications, licensing, and collecting fees for temporary use of roadways and sidewalks, especially as the number of applications has increased by over 200%.

Motorbikes neatly parked within marked lines on the sidewalk of Nguyen Trai street, former District 1, with fees paid, in 2024. Photo: Giang Anh

The system is designed to integrate various functions, including: online application submission, connection with the Ministry of Construction's administrative procedure resolution system, electronic document management and storage, city-wide digital map-based licensing, and fee management. It will also support reporting, statistics, and operational control.

Under current regulations, six categories of cases are considered for permits: serving political, cultural, or sports events; disaster prevention, search, and rescue; construction work; waste and construction material collection; organizing funerals or weddings; and temporary vehicle parking when necessary. Commercial business activities are not eligible for these permits.

A designated paid parking area on Hong Bang street, former District 5. Photo: Giang Anh

The Department of Construction stated that the current process involves many manual and time-consuming steps. Residents submit online applications, after which authorities conduct appraisals, on-site inspections, submit for approval, and perform financial reconciliation if fees are incurred.

Implementing the digital platform is expected to address these shortcomings, shorten processing times, reduce procedures, and improve the efficiency of urban order management.

Earlier, in early 2024, Ho Chi Minh City implemented temporary fees for roadway and sidewalk use for certain activities, including commercial business. However, from early 2025, with the Road Law and the Law on Road Traffic Order and Safety taking effect, the city temporarily paused this to research a more suitable model. Recently, An Dong Ward (former District 5) also piloted an online application for sidewalk licensing and fee collection in its area.

Giang Anh