The "Speeding Development Act" is designed to streamline the building development process while maintaining public safety by permitting licensed or certified third parties to certify documents and conduct inspections in accordance with building codes. Key provisions include the introduction of the term "approved agency," which refers to entities authorized to perform inspections as an alternative to local government agencies. Approved agencies must meet specific requirements, such as having professional liability insurance and maintaining objective operations. The bill also allows for electronic signatures on document submissions and mandates that local enforcement agencies audit a portion of inspections conducted by these approved agencies to ensure compliance.

Significant amendments to existing laws include a 40% reduction in permit fees when an approved agency is used for document reviews, and an 80% reduction when both document reviews and inspections are conducted by the agency. The bill requires building officials to provide equal access to construction documents for approved agencies and respond to requests for permitting or inspection documents within two business days. It establishes a timeline for permit issuance, limits audits of approved agencies to four per month unless public safety is at risk, and prohibits municipalities from imposing stricter regulations than those outlined in the bill. The act includes provisions for appeals to the building code review board and a severability clause, ensuring that the remaining provisions remain enforceable if any part is invalidated. The act is set to take effect on July 15, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 155-A:7
As Amended by the Senate: 155-A:7