The Residential Building Permit Classification Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 amends section 47-813 of the District of Columbia Official Code to streamline the process for changing the classification of commercial properties to residential use. The bill introduces an application process for property owners seeking to reclassify their properties as Class 1A, which is designated for nontransient residential purposes. It also establishes appeal rights for owners if their application is denied and includes a provision for a clawback mechanism if the property is not utilized for residential purposes in a timely manner.

Key amendments include the redefinition of Class 1A Property to encompass residential properties and those under construction for residential use, as well as the introduction of a new subsection that outlines the tax implications for properties reclassified during specific periods of the tax year. The bill specifies that property owners must apply for the classification change and provide necessary documentation, with penalties for erroneous classifications. Additionally, it allows for administrative reviews of denied applications and grants the Chief Financial Officer discretion to extend deadlines or waive penalties to alleviate undue hardship on property owners. The act is set to take effect on April 1, 2025, and will remain in effect for 90 days following approval by the Mayor.