Everyone these days is talking about using AI (like ChatGPT) to make life easier. Very few are talking about what that means or looks like. One of the ways I save time (and headaches) in local government is by using ChatGPT to quickly interpret ordinances and draft summaries or guidance.
Here’s a simple workflow I use all the time:
✅ Step 1: Download the Ordinance
Start by visiting your city’s online code platform like Municode or American Legal Publishing. Find the ordinance or section you want to analyze, and download it as a PDF. Or, do like I do and download the entire code.
✅ Step 2: Upload to ChatGPT
Drag and drop the file or paste the full text into ChatGPT. I usually add:
“Please wait for the full upload before responding.”
✅ Step 3: Ask for a Summary
Once the file is uploaded, I ask:
“Can you summarize this ordinance in plain language for residents?”
Or: “What are the key restrictions, exceptions, and enforcement provisions?”
✅ Step 4: Ask Targeted Questions
I follow up with specifics like:
“Are permits available for temporary noise exemptions?”
“What are the fines for first and second offenses?”
“What is the process for obtaining a permit?”
“Is there a difference in rules for commercial vs. residential properties?”
✅ Step 5: Save and Reuse
I reuse the output in FAQs, internal training docs, council meeting packets, or newsletters. It also helps with onboarding new staff.
AI doesn’t need to be complicated to be useful. This simple process has helped me save time, improve communication, and cut through legal jargon—without relying on legal staff for every small question. If you work in local government and haven’t tried this yet, give it a shot. You might be surprised how quickly it becomes part of your workflow.
When you’re ready, you can take it to the next level! Ask ChatGPT to develop a permit application for Ordinance X as well as the policies and procedures needed to receive and process the application. It’ll knock your socks off!
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