Bill > SB222

This bill aims to streamline the installation of residential heat pump water heaters and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) systems by making several changes to existing laws. It prohibits provisions in governing documents, deeds, or other agreements that prevent the replacement of fuel-gas appliances with electric ones or restrict the use of residential heat pump systems. For local governments, starting July 1, 2027, they must offer "asynchronous inspections," meaning inspectors can conduct their review without the contractor needing to be present simultaneously, though they can communicate via phone or video and require a follow-up in-person inspection if issues arise. By July 1, 2028, local entities must also implement an online, automated permitting process for certain heat pump installations that don't require major electrical or structural work, issuing permits in real-time, and they are generally prohibited from charging permit fees that exceed the reasonable cost of the service, with specific limits for water heaters ($150) and HVAC systems ($200), though exceptions exist for documented higher costs. The bill also clarifies that local governments can only apply specific, limited additional planning, zoning, or labor standards beyond state requirements, and they cannot require permits or inspections for simple plug-in window air conditioners or heat pumps that meet certain voltage and self-contained unit criteria. Finally, it exempts very small cities and counties from some of these new requirements.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB222