Bill > HB1851

This bill establishes the "Building Permit Reform Act" which provides significant regulatory relief for homeowners (defined as non-corporate, single-family residential property owners) when obtaining building and construction permits. The legislation prevents local governments from requiring homeowners to obtain professional licenses, certifications, or take examinations to apply for permits, as long as work is performed by the owner or current resident. The bill allows homeowners to perform various home improvement tasks without extensive permitting, such as replacing appliances, sinks, and floor coverings, with some specific exceptions for complex work involving gas connections or public utility services. The act also introduces consumer-friendly provisions like capping administrative fees for unpermitted work, limiting inspection timeframes, preventing excessive reinspection charges, and protecting homeowners from arbitrary stop-work orders. Notably, the bill requires local governments to provide free access to building codes if they reference copyrighted standards and restricts government agents from entering private residences without permission or a warrant. The legislation aims to reduce bureaucratic barriers and costs for homeowners undertaking minor home improvements while maintaining basic safety standards through existing building code enforcement mechanisms.

Government Affairs

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1851&year=2026&code=R