HB0002

Requires local government entities to review and approve or deny residential building permit applications within specified timeframes, with automatic approval if deadlines are not met.

• Defines 'application' as residential building permit applications for detached one or two family dwellings or townhouses not exceeding three stories, 3,000 square feet per unit, with separate means of egress, and regulated under the International Residential Code. (W.S. 16-13-101(a)(i))
• Requires local government entities to provide written notice within 15 calendar days of receipt indicating whether an application is complete or incomplete, and explaining what information is needed for completion. (W.S. 16-13-101(b))
• Establishes a 30 calendar day deadline for local government entities to approve or deny completed applications, not including suspended review periods. (W.S. 16-13-101(c))
• Allows review deadlines to be suspended when the applicant or local government entity requests clarification or additional information, or when state or federal agency approval is required. (W.S. 16-13-101(c)(i), W.S. 16-13-101(c)(ii))
• Permits applicants and local government entities to mutually agree in writing to extend the 30 day deadline. (W.S. 16-13-101(d))
• Requires local government entities to provide written notice within 7 calendar days after denying an application, stating the reasons for denial. (W.S. 16-13-101(e))
• Reduces permit fees by 10 percent if local government entities impose requirements or conditions not imposed during initial review and approval, except when required due to unanticipated property conditions. (W.S. 16-13-101(f))
• Deems a completed application automatically approved as submitted if the local government entity fails to meet the 30 day deadline, though buildings must still pass all safety and code compliance inspections before occupancy. (W.S. 16-13-101(g))
• Establishes definitions for terms including dwelling, dwelling unit, local government entity, means of egress, townhouse, and townhouse unit.