The bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to enhance the involvement of private providers in building inspection services. It mandates that the Florida Building Code Administrators and Inspectors Board and the Florida Building Commission include a specified number of members from private provider firms and encourages the Private Provider Association of Florida to recommend candidates for these positions. Key changes include allowing agreements instead of written contracts for inspection services, prohibiting local jurisdictions from charging additional fees for inspections by private providers, and ensuring equal access to permitting and inspection documents for private providers. The bill also clarifies that local building officials are not responsible for the regulatory administration of inspections conducted by private providers and prohibits interference with their actions.

Additionally, the bill streamlines the permit application process by reducing the timeframe for local building officials to notify applicants of incomplete documents from 20 days to 10 days, after which the application is deemed approved if no notice is given. It allows private providers to conduct inspections and submit reports electronically, requires local officials to issue certificates of occupancy within specified timeframes, and establishes a process for resolving disputes between local officials and private providers. The legislation also emphasizes accountability and transparency, ensuring that local governments cannot discourage the use of private providers and outlining liability protections for local officials. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1474 Filed: 468.605, 553.74