SB 5290: Streamlining Local Permit Review Processes in Washington State
The Washington State Legislature recently passed the Second Substitute Senate Bill 5290, aimed at consolidating and streamlining local permit review processes to expedite residential housing development. This bill introduces several key changes to improve efficiency, reduce processing times, and support the adoption of digital permitting systems across local governments.
Key Provisions of the Bill
Consolidated Permit Review Program: The bill mandates local governments to provide a consolidated review for residential building permits, aiming to issue final decisions within 45 business days or 90 calendar days. Local governments can utilize third-party services for additional inspection staff or peer review, and funding is available to support these initiatives.
Exclusions from Site Plan Review: Interior alterations that do not add bedrooms, exceed FEMA thresholds, or require upgraded fire systems are exempt from site plan review, streamlining minor modifications and repairs.
Grant Programs: The Department of Commerce is tasked with establishing two key grant programs:
Consolidated Permit Review Grant Program: This program provides grants to local governments that commit to consolidating their permit review processes. To qualify, jurisdictions must issue final decisions on residential permit applications within 45 business days or 90 calendar days. Grant funds can be used to contract third-party businesses for permit review or to hire additional inspection staff. The funds may also support audits of development regulations to identify and correct barriers to housing development.
Digital Permit System Grant Program: This grant supports local governments in upgrading their permit review processes from paper filing systems to digital systems capable of processing digital permit applications, conducting virtual inspections, and managing electronic reviews with video storage capacity. To qualify, cities must allow for the development of at least two units per lot on all predominantly residential-zoned lots within their jurisdiction.
Performance Monitoring and Reporting: Jurisdictions receiving grants must provide quarterly reports detailing the average and maximum permit review times, with a probationary period imposed for those failing to meet specified deadlines.
Digital Permitting Workgroup: The Department of Commerce will convene a workgroup to evaluate digital permitting software solutions, identify barriers, and recommend strategies to implement a statewide digital permitting system.
Fee Structures and Performance Reporting: Local governments are encouraged to develop fee structures that sustain expedited review timelines. They must report on performance metrics, including average processing times and compliance with established permit review deadlines.
Technical Assistance: The Department of Commerce will offer guidance to ensure permit fees are reasonable and sufficient to cover review costs, prioritizing support for jurisdictions that have adopted expedited review measures.
How GeoCivix Can Help Meet These Requirements
GeoCivix is well-positioned to assist local governments in aligning with the requirements of Senate Bill 5290 through our advanced SaaS solutions and expert consulting services. Here’s how GeoCivix can support your compliance and operational efficiency:
Digital Permit Management: GeoCivix offers comprehensive digital permit management systems that facilitate consolidated review processes, enabling jurisdictions to meet the bill’s 45-day and 90-day review deadlines. Our platform supports the full lifecycle of permit applications, from submission to decision, including integration with third-party inspection services.
Grant Assistance and Implementation: We can help local governments identify and apply for available grants under the new law, guiding you through the transition from paper-based to digital permitting systems. Our team provides end-to-end support, from system setup to staff training, ensuring a seamless shift to electronic permit processing.
Performance Tracking and Reporting: GeoCivix’s solutions include robust analytics and reporting tools that help local governments track permit processing times and compliance with the new legislative requirements. Our systems are designed to automate performance monitoring, making it easy to generate the required quarterly reports for the Department of Commerce.
Customized Fee Structures: Our experts can assist in developing application fee structures that balance cost recovery with the efficiency needs mandated by Senate Bill 5290. GeoCivix’s platforms can integrate with local fee schedules and provide transparency for applicants.
Technical Expertise and Ongoing Support: GeoCivix offers ongoing technical support and expertise, helping local governments navigate challenges in permit review processes and digital system adoption. Our team is committed to providing the tools and knowledge necessary for jurisdictions to maintain compliance and improve service delivery to their communities.
GeoCivix is dedicated to helping Washington’s local governments modernize their permit review processes, enhancing efficiency, and meeting the expectations set forth in Second Substitute Senate Bill 5290. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your compliance journey and transform your permit management operations.
