The bill aims to streamline local permit review processes in Washington State by amending existing laws and introducing new provisions. It allows local governments to exclude certain project permits from standard review processes, specifically permitting for interior alterations that do not significantly change the structure or use of a building. Additionally, it mandates that local governments must establish a consolidated permit review process for residential permits, ensuring decisions are made within specified time frames. The bill also introduces a grant program to support local governments in updating their permit review systems from paper to digital formats, enhancing efficiency and accessibility.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a work group to explore potential software solutions for digital permitting, with the goal of improving the overall permit review process. This work group will assess the current needs for digital systems, identify barriers to adoption, and provide recommendations for a statewide permitting software system. The department of commerce is tasked with overseeing these initiatives, including the grant programs and the work group, to ensure that local jurisdictions can effectively implement these changes and improve their permit review processes.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 36.70B.140