The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code to improve the processes surrounding building inspections, local regulations, and zoning, while also introducing new procedures for entitlement applications. It defines "entitlement" as any discretionary land use decision requiring approval from a public body or elected official, such as variances or zoning changes. The bill mandates that every entitlement application must receive at least one public hearing within thirty days of submission and be resolved within ninety days, with specific notice requirements for affected property owners and the public. Additionally, it modifies the appeal procedures for zoning boards, requiring decisions to be made within thirty calendar days and updating the notification process to include online postings.

Moreover, the bill establishes new provisions for building department responsibilities, mandating that plan reviews and inspections for construction projects be conducted within thirty days of requests, with the option for third-party inspectors if deadlines are not met. It also revises access management regulations, allowing local authorities to adopt standards for road access in unincorporated areas while ensuring these standards do not exceed state and federal regulations. The bill aims to enhance transparency and efficiency in land use decision-making and building code enforcement, while repealing outdated sections of the Revised Code to streamline the regulatory framework.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 303.15, 519.15, 711.09, 3781.10, 5552.02