Bill > HB730

This bill aims to streamline the residential building permit process by establishing clearer timelines and introducing options for third-party inspections. It requires regulatory authorities, which are government entities responsible for enforcing building codes, to inform applicants about permit requirements and to notify them within three business days whether their application is complete, also indicating if they can meet review and inspection deadlines. The bill mandates that regulatory authorities conduct plan reviews within 14 business days and inspections within 5 business days of a request, with provisions for extensions under specific circumstances. Applicants can opt to use a "qualifying third-party inspector"—a licensed architect, engineer, or certified inspector not affiliated with the project or regulatory authority—to perform these reviews and inspections at their own expense if the regulatory authority cannot meet the established timelines or if the applicant chooses to do so. These third-party inspectors must meet specific qualifications, maintain insurance, and submit reports to the regulatory authority. Once all required reviews and inspections are complete, the regulatory authority must issue the permit within one business day. The bill also clarifies that any conflicting local rules are void and allows regulatory authorities to issue stop-work orders for immediate public safety threats, while also providing immunity to regulatory authorities for the actions of applicants or third-party inspectors. Finally, it amends existing law to conform with these new provisions, including allowing for third-party inspections under certain circumstances.

Government Affairs

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/26RS/hb730.html