HB 812 — DID NOT CROSS: Revisions to Local Building Code Amendment and Permit Issuance Processes

Building Code Amendment Process: 

Section One of this legislation modifies the process for adopting local amendments to state minimum building codes by requiring DCA to maintain a permanent record of local amendments to state minimum code.

Enhancing the Permitting Shot-Clock

The bill goes further to propose revisions to the existing “shot clock” for land disturbance permits (LDPs). Current law states that local governments have 45 days to issue or deny a land disturbance permit, but that timeline resets if the applicant submits an incomplete or noncompliant plan. HB 812 would revise the process by keeping the 45-day review but adds that if the applicant resubmits a corrected version, addressing only the cited issues, the local government must complete the second review and issue a permit within 14 days. If there are material changes between iterations of the application, the timeline shall be 'reset' back up to 45 days. Additionally, the bill would require that any denial or “non-acceptance” of a permit include a written list of specific reasons with citations to local, state, or federal law. The shot clock itself is tolled if a local government is waiting for input from state agencies. 

New From Substitute:

Allows third-party providers to conduct plan reviews and inspections (including Erosion and Sediment Control Plans). If a private provider is used, the local government must reduce the fee by 50% and accept it unless they raise an objection within 5 business days.

Defines complete application, pausing the 30-day shot clock if incomplete. Local government must notify applicants within 5 business days if application is incomplete. 

Beginning January 1, 2027, any local government that issued more than 250 building permits in the previous year must maintain a publicly accessible website and post real-time updates (within one business day) on building permit applications. The website must display permit number, submission date, property address or parcel number, permit type, current status, date of last update, any missed approval deadlines, and the legal reason for denial. The portal must be searchable, free to access, not require a login, and continuously accessible. Local governments may use third-party software.

GMA is working with legislators and key stakeholders on revisions to this legislation to better serve municipal operations.