Set up a hotline that is staffed by people who are knowledgeable in the realm of building permits, requirements, etc. Sort of a piggy back off of the current "311: One call to City hall" system. I'm sure they have been asked questions relevant to this topic already. Plus, the city needs to put in place a website with a FAQs format regarding the processes and requirements. Heck, you might even consider having people online with chat capability to answer questions through that medium. You know, similar to customer service reps for insurance companies, etc.