Bill > HB2447

This bill modifies Arizona state law regarding municipal administrative reviews and development approvals, making several key changes to how cities and towns can process development plans and permits. The bill changes existing law to require (rather than allow) city and town legislative bodies to establish administrative review processes that can include reviewing and approving site plans, development plans, land divisions, and plat amendments without a public hearing. It also provides more flexibility for cities by explicitly allowing them to adopt a self-certification program where registered architects and professional engineers can certify project compliance with ordinances and construction standards for specific types of projects. The bill permits municipalities to allow at-risk submittals for preliminary grading and drainage work, and to offer expedited permit review for applicants with a proven history of regulatory compliance. Additionally, the bill adds a definition of "objective" as a standard that is not based on personal interpretation but can be verified by reference to adopted benchmarks or criteria. The legislation will become effective on December 31, 2025, giving municipalities time to adapt their administrative processes to these new provisions.

Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/82245