The proposed bill would amend current statutes related to the Office of the State Fire Marshal by removing the requirement that deputy fire marshals must have at least five years of experience in fire safety. It would also introduce a phased permitting process for construction projects, allowing municipalities to review and approve plans for municipal or private buildings, rather than requiring all submissions to go through the state office. This change aims to streamline the approval process, mandating that plans be reviewed within 60 days and prohibiting construction from commencing until approval is granted.

Additionally, the bill establishes a one-phase and a two-phase permit application process, with specific timelines for the State Forester to make determinations on applications. For one-phase applications, a final decision must be made within 60 days, while two-phase applications require an initial determination within 30 days and a final decision within 60 days. The bill also clarifies that construction cannot begin until the necessary permits are issued, ensuring compliance with the State Fire Code throughout the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 37-1382, 37-1383
Senate Engrossed Version: 37-1382, 37-1383
House Engrossed Version: 37-1382, 37-1383
Chaptered Version: 37-1382, 37-1383