# How to add open categories to a permit
When configured on a permit template, open categories can be added to permits by anyone in the project with permits access. Unlike standard categories, open categories do not require anyone to sign them off; they are simply added to the document once filled out.
When open categories can be created depends on the Always allow open categories to be created option set on the template from which the permit was created (see here). If this is enabled, open categories can be created when the permit is in a Pending category signoff, Pending signoff, Approved, Active, Requires renewal or Pending close off state. Otherwise, the permit must be in the Active state.
TIP
There is a time limit on how many open categories you can add to each permit category: once every 10 minutes per user.
- Find the permit you want to add an open category to
Follow the instructions on how to view a permit.
- Find the relevant open category section
If open categories have been configured on this permit and it is in one of the compatible states listed above, you will see one row in the panel for every open category.
- Add the open category
Click on the 
icon to open the category response dialog.
- Fill in the responses
Each prompt will require a response before you can complete the open category. Note that unlike standard categories, you do not have to nominate a sign-off user at this point.
- Confirm
Once you're done, click confirm. The open category should be added to the permit document.