SB1665 is a bill that amends the process for obtaining single-family residential building permits in Arizona. It allows applicants to use a qualified third party for application reviews or inspections if the municipality fails to respond within set time frames—15 working days for permit applications and two working days for inspection requests. The third party must be independent and cannot have a financial interest in the project or be involved in the work being inspected. The bill also provides municipalities with qualified immunity for permits and approvals issued following third-party reviews or inspections.

The bill specifies the roles and responsibilities of third parties, including adherence to municipal codes and timely communication of review or inspection results. Applicants are responsible for third-party fees and retain the right to appeal decisions made by either the municipality or the third party. If an appeal is not resolved within 60 working days, the application is automatically approved or the inspection is considered waived. The bill excludes hillside development and floodplain reviews from its provisions and clarifies that it does not limit the authority of building officials regarding certificates of occupancy.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-469, 9-835
Senate Engrossed Version: 9-469, 9-835, 12-820.01, 12-820.02
House Engrossed Version: 9-469, 9-835, 12-820.01, 12-820.02