This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 15.99, to impose new requirements regarding building permits and the processing of related requests by local government agencies. Specifically, it clarifies the definition of a "request" to include written applications for building permits, as well as other governmental approvals related to zoning and environmental reviews. The bill mandates that requests must be submitted in writing on forms provided by the agency, if available, and outlines that requests not on the agency's form must clearly identify the specific approval sought.

Additionally, the bill establishes a deadline for agencies to respond to requests for building permits, requiring them to approve or deny such requests within 60 days. If an agency fails to respond within this timeframe, the request is automatically considered approved. The bill also stipulates that if a request is denied, the agency must provide written reasons for the denial, ensuring transparency in the decision-making process. This includes requirements for multimember governing bodies to state reasons for denial on the record and provide a written statement to the applicant at a subsequent meeting.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 15.99