The bill amends the definitions related to project permits and project permit applications in Washington State law. It clarifies that a "project permit" or "project permit application" does not include building permits, which is a new insertion in the legal language. Additionally, the bill modifies the provisions regarding the exclusion of certain project permits from specific sections of the law, specifically changing the reference from RCW 36.70B.090 to RCW 36.70B.080. Local governments are granted the authority to exclude various project permits, including landmark designations and street vacations, from standard review processes if they determine that special circumstances warrant different procedures.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that local governments must exclude project permits for interior alterations from site plan review, provided these alterations do not lead to additional sleeping quarters, nonconformity with federal standards, or an increase in the building's total square footage that would necessitate upgraded fire safety systems. It emphasizes that while interior alterations are exempt from site plan review, they remain subject to applicable building codes. This legislation aims to streamline the permitting process while ensuring safety and compliance with existing regulations.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 36.70B.020
Substitute Bill: 36.70B.020, 36.70B.140
Bill as Passed Legislature: 36.70B.020, 36.70B.140
Session Law: 36.70B.020, 36.70B.140