HB 244 aims to reorganize and update the state building and fire code by repealing certain sections of the Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) and reenacting them with modifications. Key changes include replacing the term "inspector" with "official" in various contexts, introducing new definitions for local authorities, and clarifying the authority of local legislative bodies regarding enforcement mechanisms. The bill prohibits municipalities from enforcing regulations requiring automatic fire suppression systems in certain residential structures unless specific conditions are met. It also grants building officials the authority to order evacuations of premises posing imminent danger and establishes a Building Code Board of Appeals to handle appeals related to building and fire code decisions.

Additionally, the bill introduces amendments to streamline the enforcement of building codes and compliance with zoning ordinances. It allows local enforcement agencies to charge fees for inspections, mandates public hearings for proposed amendments, and clarifies the appeal process for building permits. The bill also establishes a civil penalty structure for violations, allowing municipalities to recover costs and attorney's fees in enforcement actions. Overall, HB 244 seeks to enhance compliance, improve clarity in regulations, and ensure public safety while providing local authorities with the necessary tools to enforce building codes effectively.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 147:16-a, 153:5, 155:39-d, 155-A:1, 155-A:2, 155-A:4, 155-A:7, 155-A:10, 205-D:12, 205-D:18, 310:14, 319-C:5, 319-C:5-a, 356-A:3, 672:7, 673:3, 673:10, 673:14, 673:15, 673:22, 674:12, 674:13, 674:15, 674:21, 674:29, 674:30, 674:32-c, 674:41, 674:51, 674:53, 674:60, 674:63, 674:66, 675:1, 675:3, 675:4, 675:7, 675:8, 675:9, 676:2, 676:4-b, 676:5, 676:14, 676:15, 676:17, 676:17-a, 676:17-b
As Amended by the House: 155:39-d, 155-A:1, 155-A:2, 155-A:3, 155-A:4, 155-A:10-a, 155-A:11-b, 205-D:12, 310:14, 319-C:5, 356-A:3, 672:7, 673:3, 673:10, 673:14, 673:15, 673:22, 674:13, 674:15, 674:29, 674:30, 674:32-c, 674:41, 674:60, 674:63, 674:66, 675:1, 675:3, 675:4, 675:7, 675:8, 675:9, 676:4-b, 676:5, 676:14, 676:15, 676:17, 676:17-a, 676:17-b
As Amended by the Senate: 155:39-d, 155-A:1, 155-A:2, 155-A:3, 155-A:4, 155-A:10-a, 155-A:11-b, 205-D:12, 310:14, 319-C:5, 356-A:3, 672:7, 673:3, 673:10, 673:14, 673:15, 673:22, 674:13, 674:15, 674:29, 674:30, 674:32-c, 674:41, 674:60, 674:63, 674:66, 675:1, 675:3, 675:4, 675:7, 675:8, 675:9, 676:4-b, 676:5, 676:14, 676:15, 676:17, 676:17-a, 676:17-b