Bill > SB309

This bill amends the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act to modify how municipalities administer and enforce building codes, with a significant focus on the use of third-party agencies for code enforcement. Starting January 1, 2026, municipalities will be required to retain at least two separate third-party agencies to handle code administration and inspections, with specific requirements for how these agencies are selected and contracted. The bill mandates that these third-party agencies cannot be affiliated with each other, professional service contracts cannot exceed three years, and permit applicants can choose which agency they want to work with. If a municipality cannot obtain offers from two third-party agencies, they can seek a waiver by completing an annual certification form detailing their attempts to solicit proposals. The bill also establishes new transparency requirements, such as requiring permit applications to inform applicants about their rights to file complaints about third-party agencies and mandating that municipalities maintain records of such complaints. Additionally, the bill stipulates that municipal governing body members cannot serve on boards of appeals, and provides special provisions for first-class cities regarding their appeals process. The changes aim to improve accountability, transparency, and effectiveness in municipal building code enforcement.

Labor and Employment

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=309