By Calista Stocker • Times of San Diego

Copyright timesofsandiego

Assembly Bill 253, also called the California Residential Private Permitting Review Act, has passed the California State Legislature and is expected to be approved by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

The bill, authored by Assemblymember Chris Ward, is intended to streamline the residential building permit process by allowing applicants to hire private professional providers to perform the plan check.

If the bill is passed, cities and counties would be required to provide permit applicants with an estimated timeline for compliance checks. If local building departments could not complete the review within 30 business days, private professionals could then be licensed, with cities and counties authorizing final approval.

Originally introduced in January, AB 253 was unanimously approved by the Legislature on Thursday. Supporters hope the bill will speed up new housing developments to aid California’s housing crisis while meeting state building requirements.

“California is in the middle of a housing crisis, and every delay makes the problem worse,” Ward said in a release.

“AB 253 ensures communities have the flexibility and tools they need to keep construction moving, cut down on costs, and make homes more affordable for Californians.”

The bill will take effect immediately upon Gov. Newsom’s signature, and will remain in effect until Jan. 1, 2036.

“AB 253 is about cutting through red tape to get homes built faster, while keeping safety at the forefront,” Ward said. “California cannot solve its housing crisis if projects sit idle in permitting backlogs.

“This bill gives homeowners and builders another path forward, without compromising oversight or accountability.”