Reference Entity

Reference entities are highly configurable, agency-defined objects or assets that can be associated with multiple permits and related inspections. As independent objects, reference entities can store their own information, including descriptions, location, categories, contacts, and custom fields. For example, you might define a reference entity as a building with specific attributes such as individual floors, and associate it with various permits throughout its lifecycle. Even after a linked permit is completed, the reference entity remains active and available for additional permits.

Agencies can leverage the use of reference entities as independent objects which store their own information allowing these objects to have their own categories, permits, and inspections. Reference entities are helpful for fire departments, environmental agencies, and office buildings. 

Steps to Enable

Reference entities require many set up steps through Functional Setup Manager prior to use within Permitting and Licensing. Oracle recommends following the steps outlined in FSM and in Implementing Permitting and Licensing, Setting Up Reference Entities on the Oracle Help Center. 

Enable the Reference Entities option in Functional Setup Manager:

  1. Navigate to Setup and Maintenance of Offerings > Offering: Permits. 
  2. Click Change Feature Opt In.
  3. Under Public Sector Permits, enable the Reference Entities option.

Once you've enabled the reference entity option, you'll set up your permit for reference entities and then set up a reference entity type. Once the types are created you can add the reference entities that you've created. See the Key Resources for more information. 

Tips And Considerations

Once you've completed your set up of Reference Entities, you can further the use by linking your permits to reference entities and leveraging inspections within reference entities. See our new features "Permit Link to a Reference Entity" and "Support for Reference Entities in Permit Inspections".  

Key Resources