Amended IN Assembly March 24, 2025 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20252026 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 671Introduced by Assembly Member WicksFebruary 14, 2025 An act to amend Section 135 of the Health and Safety Code, relating to public health. An act to add Chapter 14 (commencing with Section 66345) to Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code, relating to building permits.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 671, as amended, Wicks. Administration of public health. Accelerated restaurant building plan approval.Existing law, the California Building Standards Law, establishes the California Building Standards Commission within the Department of General Services. Existing law requires the commission to approve and adopt building standards and to codify those standards in the California Building Standards Code.The Planning and Zoning Law requires a city or county to adopt a general plan for land use development within its boundaries. Existing law, the Permit Streamlining Act, requires each public agency to provide a development project applicant with a list that specifies the information that will be required from any applicant for a development project.This bill would require a local building department or local permitting department to allow a qualified professional certifier, as defined, to certify compliance with applicable building, health, and safety codes for a tenant improvement relating to a restaurant. In that regard, the bill would require the qualified professional certifier to submit a statement attesting that the tenant improvement plans and specifications comply with all applicable laws and regulations. The bill would also make qualified professional certifiers subject to certain penalties for false statements or willful noncompliance with these provisions, and would make qualified professional certifiers liable for any damages arising from negligent plan review. The bill would require that a certified plan be deemed approved for permitting purposes upon submission of the certification, provided that all fees and required documents have been submitted. This bill would require each local building department or local permitting department to conduct annual audits of tenant improvements submitted for certification, as specified. By requiring local entities to administer a new program and to take certain actions, this bill would impose a state-mandated program. This bill would also make related findings and declarations.The bill would include findings that changes proposed by this bill address a matter of statewide concern rather than a municipal affair and, therefore, apply to all cities, including charter cities.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Existing law establishes, within the California Health and Human Services Agency, the State Department of Public Health, which has authority over various programs promoting public health. Existing law requires, if a department within the agency has received approval of an operational state plan by a federal agency or has applied and has been approved for a waiver from a federal law or federal regulation, the department to make any and all approved plans and waivers available to the public by publishing a hyperlink to that information on the homepage of the departments internet website.This bill would make a technical, nonsubstantive change to those provisions.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: NOYES Local Program: NOYES Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Chapter 14 (commencing with Section 66345) is added to Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code, to read: CHAPTER 14. Accelerated Restaurant Building Plan Approval66345. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) Small, independent restaurants are essential to Californias identity as a world-renowned culinary destination, reflecting the states diversity, agricultural abundance, and tradition of culinary innovation.(b) Family-owned restaurants serve as cultural anchors in their communities, preserving and sharing diverse food traditions across generations while creating spaces for community gathering and celebration.(c) The restaurant industry is one of Californias largest small business employers, providing critical first jobs, career advancement opportunities, and pathways to business ownership for immigrant entrepreneurs and historically underserved communities.(d) Californias restaurant sector is a vital component of the states tourism industry, with food tourism generating substantial economic activity in communities throughout the state.(e) Local restaurants play a crucial role in supporting Californias agricultural sector by sourcing ingredients from local farms and food producers, contributing to the states farm-to-table movement and sustainable food systems.(f) Delays in municipal building plan review processes can create significant economic hardship for small business owners.(g) Qualified licensed architects and engineers can supplement municipal plan review capacity while maintaining public safety standards.(h) An expedited review process for food service establishments will promote economic development while ensuring compliance with all applicable health and safety requirements.66345.1. For purposes of this chapter, qualified professional certifier means an architect licensed pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or a professional engineer licensed pursuant to Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, who meets both of the following conditions:(a) Has at least five years of experience in commercial building design or plan review.(b) Maintains professional liability insurance in an amount not less than two million dollars ($2,000,000) per occurrence.66345.2. (a) (1) A local building department or local permitting department shall allow a qualified professional certifier to certify compliance with applicable building, health, and safety codes for a tenant improvement relating to a restaurant.(2) A tenant improvement relating to a restaurant certified pursuant to this chapter shall comply with building standards approved by the California Building Standards Commission and local building standards in effect at the time the application for a permit is submitted.(b) (1) A qualified professional certifier shall submit a statement attesting that the tenant improvement plans and specifications comply with all applicable laws and regulations.(2) A certified plan shall be deemed approved for permitting purposes upon submission of the certification, provided that all fees and required documents have been submitted.(c) (1) Each local building department or local permitting department shall annually conduct a random audit of no less than 10 percent and no more than 20 percent of all tenant improvements submitted for certification under this chapter.(2) Audits shall be initiated within five business days following permit issuance and shall include a review of the submitted plans for compliance with applicable laws.(3) If an audit reveals material noncompliance, the local building department or local permitting department shall provide a plan check correction notice within 10 days of the audits initiation.(4) Repeated violations by a qualified professional certifier may result in suspension or revocation of certification privileges granted under this chapter.(d) (1) Certification under this chapter does not exempt a tenant improvement from other mandatory construction inspections, including, but not limited to, fire, health, and structural inspections conducted during or after construction.(2) This chapter does not limit the authority of the local health department to conduct food facility inspections as required under the California Retail Food Code (Part 7 (commencing with Section 113700) of Division 104).(e) (1) Any false statement in a certification submission made under this chapter shall be grounds for disciplinary action by the California Architects Board, as described in Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or the Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists, as described in Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, as applicable.(2) Local jurisdictions may impose reasonable administrative penalties, including fines, for willful noncompliance with the requirements of this chapter.66345.3. This chapter does not prohibit a local building department or local permitting department from charging permit fees for applications utilizing a qualified professional certifier.66345.4. (a) Qualified professional certifiers shall be liable for any damages arising from negligent plan review.(b) This chapter does not reduce or limit the authority or liability of a local building department or local permitting department.SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares that restaurants role in the states tourism and agricultural industries is a matter of statewide concern and is not a municipal affair as that term is used in Section 5 of Article XI of the California Constitution. Therefore, Section 1 of this act adding Chapter 14 (commencing with Section 66345) to Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code applies to all cities, including charter cities.SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because a local agency or school district has the authority to levy service charges, fees, or assessments sufficient to pay for the program or level of service mandated by this act, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code.SECTION 1.Section 135 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:135.If a department within the California Health and Human Services Agency has received approval of an operational state plan by a federal agency, or has applied and has been approved for a waiver from a federal law or federal regulation, the department shall make any and all approved plans and waivers available to the public by publishing a hyperlink to that information on the homepage of the departments internet website.
Amended IN Assembly March 24, 2025 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20252026 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 671Introduced by Assembly Member WicksFebruary 14, 2025 An act to amend Section 135 of the Health and Safety Code, relating to public health. An act to add Chapter 14 (commencing with Section 66345) to Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code, relating to building permits.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 671, as amended, Wicks. Administration of public health. Accelerated restaurant building plan approval.Existing law, the California Building Standards Law, establishes the California Building Standards Commission within the Department of General Services. Existing law requires the commission to approve and adopt building standards and to codify those standards in the California Building Standards Code.The Planning and Zoning Law requires a city or county to adopt a general plan for land use development within its boundaries. Existing law, the Permit Streamlining Act, requires each public agency to provide a development project applicant with a list that specifies the information that will be required from any applicant for a development project.This bill would require a local building department or local permitting department to allow a qualified professional certifier, as defined, to certify compliance with applicable building, health, and safety codes for a tenant improvement relating to a restaurant. In that regard, the bill would require the qualified professional certifier to submit a statement attesting that the tenant improvement plans and specifications comply with all applicable laws and regulations. The bill would also make qualified professional certifiers subject to certain penalties for false statements or willful noncompliance with these provisions, and would make qualified professional certifiers liable for any damages arising from negligent plan review. The bill would require that a certified plan be deemed approved for permitting purposes upon submission of the certification, provided that all fees and required documents have been submitted. This bill would require each local building department or local permitting department to conduct annual audits of tenant improvements submitted for certification, as specified. By requiring local entities to administer a new program and to take certain actions, this bill would impose a state-mandated program. This bill would also make related findings and declarations.The bill would include findings that changes proposed by this bill address a matter of statewide concern rather than a municipal affair and, therefore, apply to all cities, including charter cities.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Existing law establishes, within the California Health and Human Services Agency, the State Department of Public Health, which has authority over various programs promoting public health. Existing law requires, if a department within the agency has received approval of an operational state plan by a federal agency or has applied and has been approved for a waiver from a federal law or federal regulation, the department to make any and all approved plans and waivers available to the public by publishing a hyperlink to that information on the homepage of the departments internet website.This bill would make a technical, nonsubstantive change to those provisions.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: NOYES Local Program: NOYES
Amended IN Assembly March 24, 2025
Amended IN Assembly March 24, 2025
CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20252026 REGULAR SESSION
Assembly Bill
No. 671
Introduced by Assembly Member WicksFebruary 14, 2025
Introduced by Assembly Member Wicks
February 14, 2025
An act to amend Section 135 of the Health and Safety Code, relating to public health. An act to add Chapter 14 (commencing with Section 66345) to Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code, relating to building permits.
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
AB 671, as amended, Wicks. Administration of public health. Accelerated restaurant building plan approval.
Existing law, the California Building Standards Law, establishes the California Building Standards Commission within the Department of General Services. Existing law requires the commission to approve and adopt building standards and to codify those standards in the California Building Standards Code.The Planning and Zoning Law requires a city or county to adopt a general plan for land use development within its boundaries. Existing law, the Permit Streamlining Act, requires each public agency to provide a development project applicant with a list that specifies the information that will be required from any applicant for a development project.This bill would require a local building department or local permitting department to allow a qualified professional certifier, as defined, to certify compliance with applicable building, health, and safety codes for a tenant improvement relating to a restaurant. In that regard, the bill would require the qualified professional certifier to submit a statement attesting that the tenant improvement plans and specifications comply with all applicable laws and regulations. The bill would also make qualified professional certifiers subject to certain penalties for false statements or willful noncompliance with these provisions, and would make qualified professional certifiers liable for any damages arising from negligent plan review. The bill would require that a certified plan be deemed approved for permitting purposes upon submission of the certification, provided that all fees and required documents have been submitted. This bill would require each local building department or local permitting department to conduct annual audits of tenant improvements submitted for certification, as specified. By requiring local entities to administer a new program and to take certain actions, this bill would impose a state-mandated program. This bill would also make related findings and declarations.The bill would include findings that changes proposed by this bill address a matter of statewide concern rather than a municipal affair and, therefore, apply to all cities, including charter cities.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Existing law establishes, within the California Health and Human Services Agency, the State Department of Public Health, which has authority over various programs promoting public health. Existing law requires, if a department within the agency has received approval of an operational state plan by a federal agency or has applied and has been approved for a waiver from a federal law or federal regulation, the department to make any and all approved plans and waivers available to the public by publishing a hyperlink to that information on the homepage of the departments internet website.This bill would make a technical, nonsubstantive change to those provisions.
Existing law, the California Building Standards Law, establishes the California Building Standards Commission within the Department of General Services. Existing law requires the commission to approve and adopt building standards and to codify those standards in the California Building Standards Code.
The Planning and Zoning Law requires a city or county to adopt a general plan for land use development within its boundaries. Existing law, the Permit Streamlining Act, requires each public agency to provide a development project applicant with a list that specifies the information that will be required from any applicant for a development project.
This bill would require a local building department or local permitting department to allow a qualified professional certifier, as defined, to certify compliance with applicable building, health, and safety codes for a tenant improvement relating to a restaurant. In that regard, the bill would require the qualified professional certifier to submit a statement attesting that the tenant improvement plans and specifications comply with all applicable laws and regulations. The bill would also make qualified professional certifiers subject to certain penalties for false statements or willful noncompliance with these provisions, and would make qualified professional certifiers liable for any damages arising from negligent plan review. The bill would require that a certified plan be deemed approved for permitting purposes upon submission of the certification, provided that all fees and required documents have been submitted. This bill would require each local building department or local permitting department to conduct annual audits of tenant improvements submitted for certification, as specified. By requiring local entities to administer a new program and to take certain actions, this bill would impose a state-mandated program.
This bill would also make related findings and declarations.
The bill would include findings that changes proposed by this bill address a matter of statewide concern rather than a municipal affair and, therefore, apply to all cities, including charter cities.
The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.
This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.
Existing law establishes, within the California Health and Human Services Agency, the State Department of Public Health, which has authority over various programs promoting public health. Existing law requires, if a department within the agency has received approval of an operational state plan by a federal agency or has applied and has been approved for a waiver from a federal law or federal regulation, the department to make any and all approved plans and waivers available to the public by publishing a hyperlink to that information on the homepage of the departments internet website.
This bill would make a technical, nonsubstantive change to those provisions.
## Digest Key
## Bill Text
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Chapter 14 (commencing with Section 66345) is added to Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code, to read: CHAPTER 14. Accelerated Restaurant Building Plan Approval66345. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) Small, independent restaurants are essential to Californias identity as a world-renowned culinary destination, reflecting the states diversity, agricultural abundance, and tradition of culinary innovation.(b) Family-owned restaurants serve as cultural anchors in their communities, preserving and sharing diverse food traditions across generations while creating spaces for community gathering and celebration.(c) The restaurant industry is one of Californias largest small business employers, providing critical first jobs, career advancement opportunities, and pathways to business ownership for immigrant entrepreneurs and historically underserved communities.(d) Californias restaurant sector is a vital component of the states tourism industry, with food tourism generating substantial economic activity in communities throughout the state.(e) Local restaurants play a crucial role in supporting Californias agricultural sector by sourcing ingredients from local farms and food producers, contributing to the states farm-to-table movement and sustainable food systems.(f) Delays in municipal building plan review processes can create significant economic hardship for small business owners.(g) Qualified licensed architects and engineers can supplement municipal plan review capacity while maintaining public safety standards.(h) An expedited review process for food service establishments will promote economic development while ensuring compliance with all applicable health and safety requirements.66345.1. For purposes of this chapter, qualified professional certifier means an architect licensed pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or a professional engineer licensed pursuant to Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, who meets both of the following conditions:(a) Has at least five years of experience in commercial building design or plan review.(b) Maintains professional liability insurance in an amount not less than two million dollars ($2,000,000) per occurrence.66345.2. (a) (1) A local building department or local permitting department shall allow a qualified professional certifier to certify compliance with applicable building, health, and safety codes for a tenant improvement relating to a restaurant.(2) A tenant improvement relating to a restaurant certified pursuant to this chapter shall comply with building standards approved by the California Building Standards Commission and local building standards in effect at the time the application for a permit is submitted.(b) (1) A qualified professional certifier shall submit a statement attesting that the tenant improvement plans and specifications comply with all applicable laws and regulations.(2) A certified plan shall be deemed approved for permitting purposes upon submission of the certification, provided that all fees and required documents have been submitted.(c) (1) Each local building department or local permitting department shall annually conduct a random audit of no less than 10 percent and no more than 20 percent of all tenant improvements submitted for certification under this chapter.(2) Audits shall be initiated within five business days following permit issuance and shall include a review of the submitted plans for compliance with applicable laws.(3) If an audit reveals material noncompliance, the local building department or local permitting department shall provide a plan check correction notice within 10 days of the audits initiation.(4) Repeated violations by a qualified professional certifier may result in suspension or revocation of certification privileges granted under this chapter.(d) (1) Certification under this chapter does not exempt a tenant improvement from other mandatory construction inspections, including, but not limited to, fire, health, and structural inspections conducted during or after construction.(2) This chapter does not limit the authority of the local health department to conduct food facility inspections as required under the California Retail Food Code (Part 7 (commencing with Section 113700) of Division 104).(e) (1) Any false statement in a certification submission made under this chapter shall be grounds for disciplinary action by the California Architects Board, as described in Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or the Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists, as described in Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, as applicable.(2) Local jurisdictions may impose reasonable administrative penalties, including fines, for willful noncompliance with the requirements of this chapter.66345.3. This chapter does not prohibit a local building department or local permitting department from charging permit fees for applications utilizing a qualified professional certifier.66345.4. (a) Qualified professional certifiers shall be liable for any damages arising from negligent plan review.(b) This chapter does not reduce or limit the authority or liability of a local building department or local permitting department.SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares that restaurants role in the states tourism and agricultural industries is a matter of statewide concern and is not a municipal affair as that term is used in Section 5 of Article XI of the California Constitution. Therefore, Section 1 of this act adding Chapter 14 (commencing with Section 66345) to Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code applies to all cities, including charter cities.SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because a local agency or school district has the authority to levy service charges, fees, or assessments sufficient to pay for the program or level of service mandated by this act, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code.SECTION 1.Section 135 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:135.If a department within the California Health and Human Services Agency has received approval of an operational state plan by a federal agency, or has applied and has been approved for a waiver from a federal law or federal regulation, the department shall make any and all approved plans and waivers available to the public by publishing a hyperlink to that information on the homepage of the departments internet website.
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
## The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
SECTION 1. Chapter 14 (commencing with Section 66345) is added to Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code, to read: CHAPTER 14. Accelerated Restaurant Building Plan Approval66345. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) Small, independent restaurants are essential to Californias identity as a world-renowned culinary destination, reflecting the states diversity, agricultural abundance, and tradition of culinary innovation.(b) Family-owned restaurants serve as cultural anchors in their communities, preserving and sharing diverse food traditions across generations while creating spaces for community gathering and celebration.(c) The restaurant industry is one of Californias largest small business employers, providing critical first jobs, career advancement opportunities, and pathways to business ownership for immigrant entrepreneurs and historically underserved communities.(d) Californias restaurant sector is a vital component of the states tourism industry, with food tourism generating substantial economic activity in communities throughout the state.(e) Local restaurants play a crucial role in supporting Californias agricultural sector by sourcing ingredients from local farms and food producers, contributing to the states farm-to-table movement and sustainable food systems.(f) Delays in municipal building plan review processes can create significant economic hardship for small business owners.(g) Qualified licensed architects and engineers can supplement municipal plan review capacity while maintaining public safety standards.(h) An expedited review process for food service establishments will promote economic development while ensuring compliance with all applicable health and safety requirements.66345.1. For purposes of this chapter, qualified professional certifier means an architect licensed pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or a professional engineer licensed pursuant to Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, who meets both of the following conditions:(a) Has at least five years of experience in commercial building design or plan review.(b) Maintains professional liability insurance in an amount not less than two million dollars ($2,000,000) per occurrence.66345.2. (a) (1) A local building department or local permitting department shall allow a qualified professional certifier to certify compliance with applicable building, health, and safety codes for a tenant improvement relating to a restaurant.(2) A tenant improvement relating to a restaurant certified pursuant to this chapter shall comply with building standards approved by the California Building Standards Commission and local building standards in effect at the time the application for a permit is submitted.(b) (1) A qualified professional certifier shall submit a statement attesting that the tenant improvement plans and specifications comply with all applicable laws and regulations.(2) A certified plan shall be deemed approved for permitting purposes upon submission of the certification, provided that all fees and required documents have been submitted.(c) (1) Each local building department or local permitting department shall annually conduct a random audit of no less than 10 percent and no more than 20 percent of all tenant improvements submitted for certification under this chapter.(2) Audits shall be initiated within five business days following permit issuance and shall include a review of the submitted plans for compliance with applicable laws.(3) If an audit reveals material noncompliance, the local building department or local permitting department shall provide a plan check correction notice within 10 days of the audits initiation.(4) Repeated violations by a qualified professional certifier may result in suspension or revocation of certification privileges granted under this chapter.(d) (1) Certification under this chapter does not exempt a tenant improvement from other mandatory construction inspections, including, but not limited to, fire, health, and structural inspections conducted during or after construction.(2) This chapter does not limit the authority of the local health department to conduct food facility inspections as required under the California Retail Food Code (Part 7 (commencing with Section 113700) of Division 104).(e) (1) Any false statement in a certification submission made under this chapter shall be grounds for disciplinary action by the California Architects Board, as described in Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or the Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists, as described in Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, as applicable.(2) Local jurisdictions may impose reasonable administrative penalties, including fines, for willful noncompliance with the requirements of this chapter.66345.3. This chapter does not prohibit a local building department or local permitting department from charging permit fees for applications utilizing a qualified professional certifier.66345.4. (a) Qualified professional certifiers shall be liable for any damages arising from negligent plan review.(b) This chapter does not reduce or limit the authority or liability of a local building department or local permitting department.
SECTION 1. Chapter 14 (commencing with Section 66345) is added to Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code, to read:
### SECTION 1.
CHAPTER 14. Accelerated Restaurant Building Plan Approval66345. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) Small, independent restaurants are essential to Californias identity as a world-renowned culinary destination, reflecting the states diversity, agricultural abundance, and tradition of culinary innovation.(b) Family-owned restaurants serve as cultural anchors in their communities, preserving and sharing diverse food traditions across generations while creating spaces for community gathering and celebration.(c) The restaurant industry is one of Californias largest small business employers, providing critical first jobs, career advancement opportunities, and pathways to business ownership for immigrant entrepreneurs and historically underserved communities.(d) Californias restaurant sector is a vital component of the states tourism industry, with food tourism generating substantial economic activity in communities throughout the state.(e) Local restaurants play a crucial role in supporting Californias agricultural sector by sourcing ingredients from local farms and food producers, contributing to the states farm-to-table movement and sustainable food systems.(f) Delays in municipal building plan review processes can create significant economic hardship for small business owners.(g) Qualified licensed architects and engineers can supplement municipal plan review capacity while maintaining public safety standards.(h) An expedited review process for food service establishments will promote economic development while ensuring compliance with all applicable health and safety requirements.66345.1. For purposes of this chapter, qualified professional certifier means an architect licensed pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or a professional engineer licensed pursuant to Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, who meets both of the following conditions:(a) Has at least five years of experience in commercial building design or plan review.(b) Maintains professional liability insurance in an amount not less than two million dollars ($2,000,000) per occurrence.66345.2. (a) (1) A local building department or local permitting department shall allow a qualified professional certifier to certify compliance with applicable building, health, and safety codes for a tenant improvement relating to a restaurant.(2) A tenant improvement relating to a restaurant certified pursuant to this chapter shall comply with building standards approved by the California Building Standards Commission and local building standards in effect at the time the application for a permit is submitted.(b) (1) A qualified professional certifier shall submit a statement attesting that the tenant improvement plans and specifications comply with all applicable laws and regulations.(2) A certified plan shall be deemed approved for permitting purposes upon submission of the certification, provided that all fees and required documents have been submitted.(c) (1) Each local building department or local permitting department shall annually conduct a random audit of no less than 10 percent and no more than 20 percent of all tenant improvements submitted for certification under this chapter.(2) Audits shall be initiated within five business days following permit issuance and shall include a review of the submitted plans for compliance with applicable laws.(3) If an audit reveals material noncompliance, the local building department or local permitting department shall provide a plan check correction notice within 10 days of the audits initiation.(4) Repeated violations by a qualified professional certifier may result in suspension or revocation of certification privileges granted under this chapter.(d) (1) Certification under this chapter does not exempt a tenant improvement from other mandatory construction inspections, including, but not limited to, fire, health, and structural inspections conducted during or after construction.(2) This chapter does not limit the authority of the local health department to conduct food facility inspections as required under the California Retail Food Code (Part 7 (commencing with Section 113700) of Division 104).(e) (1) Any false statement in a certification submission made under this chapter shall be grounds for disciplinary action by the California Architects Board, as described in Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or the Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists, as described in Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, as applicable.(2) Local jurisdictions may impose reasonable administrative penalties, including fines, for willful noncompliance with the requirements of this chapter.66345.3. This chapter does not prohibit a local building department or local permitting department from charging permit fees for applications utilizing a qualified professional certifier.66345.4. (a) Qualified professional certifiers shall be liable for any damages arising from negligent plan review.(b) This chapter does not reduce or limit the authority or liability of a local building department or local permitting department.
CHAPTER 14. Accelerated Restaurant Building Plan Approval66345. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) Small, independent restaurants are essential to Californias identity as a world-renowned culinary destination, reflecting the states diversity, agricultural abundance, and tradition of culinary innovation.(b) Family-owned restaurants serve as cultural anchors in their communities, preserving and sharing diverse food traditions across generations while creating spaces for community gathering and celebration.(c) The restaurant industry is one of Californias largest small business employers, providing critical first jobs, career advancement opportunities, and pathways to business ownership for immigrant entrepreneurs and historically underserved communities.(d) Californias restaurant sector is a vital component of the states tourism industry, with food tourism generating substantial economic activity in communities throughout the state.(e) Local restaurants play a crucial role in supporting Californias agricultural sector by sourcing ingredients from local farms and food producers, contributing to the states farm-to-table movement and sustainable food systems.(f) Delays in municipal building plan review processes can create significant economic hardship for small business owners.(g) Qualified licensed architects and engineers can supplement municipal plan review capacity while maintaining public safety standards.(h) An expedited review process for food service establishments will promote economic development while ensuring compliance with all applicable health and safety requirements.66345.1. For purposes of this chapter, qualified professional certifier means an architect licensed pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or a professional engineer licensed pursuant to Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, who meets both of the following conditions:(a) Has at least five years of experience in commercial building design or plan review.(b) Maintains professional liability insurance in an amount not less than two million dollars ($2,000,000) per occurrence.66345.2. (a) (1) A local building department or local permitting department shall allow a qualified professional certifier to certify compliance with applicable building, health, and safety codes for a tenant improvement relating to a restaurant.(2) A tenant improvement relating to a restaurant certified pursuant to this chapter shall comply with building standards approved by the California Building Standards Commission and local building standards in effect at the time the application for a permit is submitted.(b) (1) A qualified professional certifier shall submit a statement attesting that the tenant improvement plans and specifications comply with all applicable laws and regulations.(2) A certified plan shall be deemed approved for permitting purposes upon submission of the certification, provided that all fees and required documents have been submitted.(c) (1) Each local building department or local permitting department shall annually conduct a random audit of no less than 10 percent and no more than 20 percent of all tenant improvements submitted for certification under this chapter.(2) Audits shall be initiated within five business days following permit issuance and shall include a review of the submitted plans for compliance with applicable laws.(3) If an audit reveals material noncompliance, the local building department or local permitting department shall provide a plan check correction notice within 10 days of the audits initiation.(4) Repeated violations by a qualified professional certifier may result in suspension or revocation of certification privileges granted under this chapter.(d) (1) Certification under this chapter does not exempt a tenant improvement from other mandatory construction inspections, including, but not limited to, fire, health, and structural inspections conducted during or after construction.(2) This chapter does not limit the authority of the local health department to conduct food facility inspections as required under the California Retail Food Code (Part 7 (commencing with Section 113700) of Division 104).(e) (1) Any false statement in a certification submission made under this chapter shall be grounds for disciplinary action by the California Architects Board, as described in Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or the Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists, as described in Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, as applicable.(2) Local jurisdictions may impose reasonable administrative penalties, including fines, for willful noncompliance with the requirements of this chapter.66345.3. This chapter does not prohibit a local building department or local permitting department from charging permit fees for applications utilizing a qualified professional certifier.66345.4. (a) Qualified professional certifiers shall be liable for any damages arising from negligent plan review.(b) This chapter does not reduce or limit the authority or liability of a local building department or local permitting department.
CHAPTER 14. Accelerated Restaurant Building Plan Approval
CHAPTER 14. Accelerated Restaurant Building Plan Approval
66345. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) Small, independent restaurants are essential to Californias identity as a world-renowned culinary destination, reflecting the states diversity, agricultural abundance, and tradition of culinary innovation.(b) Family-owned restaurants serve as cultural anchors in their communities, preserving and sharing diverse food traditions across generations while creating spaces for community gathering and celebration.(c) The restaurant industry is one of Californias largest small business employers, providing critical first jobs, career advancement opportunities, and pathways to business ownership for immigrant entrepreneurs and historically underserved communities.(d) Californias restaurant sector is a vital component of the states tourism industry, with food tourism generating substantial economic activity in communities throughout the state.(e) Local restaurants play a crucial role in supporting Californias agricultural sector by sourcing ingredients from local farms and food producers, contributing to the states farm-to-table movement and sustainable food systems.(f) Delays in municipal building plan review processes can create significant economic hardship for small business owners.(g) Qualified licensed architects and engineers can supplement municipal plan review capacity while maintaining public safety standards.(h) An expedited review process for food service establishments will promote economic development while ensuring compliance with all applicable health and safety requirements.
66345. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:
(a) Small, independent restaurants are essential to Californias identity as a world-renowned culinary destination, reflecting the states diversity, agricultural abundance, and tradition of culinary innovation.
(b) Family-owned restaurants serve as cultural anchors in their communities, preserving and sharing diverse food traditions across generations while creating spaces for community gathering and celebration.
(c) The restaurant industry is one of Californias largest small business employers, providing critical first jobs, career advancement opportunities, and pathways to business ownership for immigrant entrepreneurs and historically underserved communities.
(d) Californias restaurant sector is a vital component of the states tourism industry, with food tourism generating substantial economic activity in communities throughout the state.
(e) Local restaurants play a crucial role in supporting Californias agricultural sector by sourcing ingredients from local farms and food producers, contributing to the states farm-to-table movement and sustainable food systems.
(f) Delays in municipal building plan review processes can create significant economic hardship for small business owners.
(g) Qualified licensed architects and engineers can supplement municipal plan review capacity while maintaining public safety standards.
(h) An expedited review process for food service establishments will promote economic development while ensuring compliance with all applicable health and safety requirements.
66345.1. For purposes of this chapter, qualified professional certifier means an architect licensed pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or a professional engineer licensed pursuant to Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, who meets both of the following conditions:(a) Has at least five years of experience in commercial building design or plan review.(b) Maintains professional liability insurance in an amount not less than two million dollars ($2,000,000) per occurrence.
66345.1. For purposes of this chapter, qualified professional certifier means an architect licensed pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or a professional engineer licensed pursuant to Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, who meets both of the following conditions:
(a) Has at least five years of experience in commercial building design or plan review.
(b) Maintains professional liability insurance in an amount not less than two million dollars ($2,000,000) per occurrence.
66345.2. (a) (1) A local building department or local permitting department shall allow a qualified professional certifier to certify compliance with applicable building, health, and safety codes for a tenant improvement relating to a restaurant.(2) A tenant improvement relating to a restaurant certified pursuant to this chapter shall comply with building standards approved by the California Building Standards Commission and local building standards in effect at the time the application for a permit is submitted.(b) (1) A qualified professional certifier shall submit a statement attesting that the tenant improvement plans and specifications comply with all applicable laws and regulations.(2) A certified plan shall be deemed approved for permitting purposes upon submission of the certification, provided that all fees and required documents have been submitted.(c) (1) Each local building department or local permitting department shall annually conduct a random audit of no less than 10 percent and no more than 20 percent of all tenant improvements submitted for certification under this chapter.(2) Audits shall be initiated within five business days following permit issuance and shall include a review of the submitted plans for compliance with applicable laws.(3) If an audit reveals material noncompliance, the local building department or local permitting department shall provide a plan check correction notice within 10 days of the audits initiation.(4) Repeated violations by a qualified professional certifier may result in suspension or revocation of certification privileges granted under this chapter.(d) (1) Certification under this chapter does not exempt a tenant improvement from other mandatory construction inspections, including, but not limited to, fire, health, and structural inspections conducted during or after construction.(2) This chapter does not limit the authority of the local health department to conduct food facility inspections as required under the California Retail Food Code (Part 7 (commencing with Section 113700) of Division 104).(e) (1) Any false statement in a certification submission made under this chapter shall be grounds for disciplinary action by the California Architects Board, as described in Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or the Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists, as described in Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, as applicable.(2) Local jurisdictions may impose reasonable administrative penalties, including fines, for willful noncompliance with the requirements of this chapter.
66345.2. (a) (1) A local building department or local permitting department shall allow a qualified professional certifier to certify compliance with applicable building, health, and safety codes for a tenant improvement relating to a restaurant.
(2) A tenant improvement relating to a restaurant certified pursuant to this chapter shall comply with building standards approved by the California Building Standards Commission and local building standards in effect at the time the application for a permit is submitted.
(b) (1) A qualified professional certifier shall submit a statement attesting that the tenant improvement plans and specifications comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
(2) A certified plan shall be deemed approved for permitting purposes upon submission of the certification, provided that all fees and required documents have been submitted.
(c) (1) Each local building department or local permitting department shall annually conduct a random audit of no less than 10 percent and no more than 20 percent of all tenant improvements submitted for certification under this chapter.
(2) Audits shall be initiated within five business days following permit issuance and shall include a review of the submitted plans for compliance with applicable laws.
(3) If an audit reveals material noncompliance, the local building department or local permitting department shall provide a plan check correction notice within 10 days of the audits initiation.
(4) Repeated violations by a qualified professional certifier may result in suspension or revocation of certification privileges granted under this chapter.
(d) (1) Certification under this chapter does not exempt a tenant improvement from other mandatory construction inspections, including, but not limited to, fire, health, and structural inspections conducted during or after construction.
(2) This chapter does not limit the authority of the local health department to conduct food facility inspections as required under the California Retail Food Code (Part 7 (commencing with Section 113700) of Division 104).
(e) (1) Any false statement in a certification submission made under this chapter shall be grounds for disciplinary action by the California Architects Board, as described in Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or the Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists, as described in Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 6700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, as applicable.
(2) Local jurisdictions may impose reasonable administrative penalties, including fines, for willful noncompliance with the requirements of this chapter.
66345.3. This chapter does not prohibit a local building department or local permitting department from charging permit fees for applications utilizing a qualified professional certifier.
66345.3. This chapter does not prohibit a local building department or local permitting department from charging permit fees for applications utilizing a qualified professional certifier.
66345.4. (a) Qualified professional certifiers shall be liable for any damages arising from negligent plan review.(b) This chapter does not reduce or limit the authority or liability of a local building department or local permitting department.
66345.4. (a) Qualified professional certifiers shall be liable for any damages arising from negligent plan review.
(b) This chapter does not reduce or limit the authority or liability of a local building department or local permitting department.
SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares that restaurants role in the states tourism and agricultural industries is a matter of statewide concern and is not a municipal affair as that term is used in Section 5 of Article XI of the California Constitution. Therefore, Section 1 of this act adding Chapter 14 (commencing with Section 66345) to Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code applies to all cities, including charter cities.
SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares that restaurants role in the states tourism and agricultural industries is a matter of statewide concern and is not a municipal affair as that term is used in Section 5 of Article XI of the California Constitution. Therefore, Section 1 of this act adding Chapter 14 (commencing with Section 66345) to Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code applies to all cities, including charter cities.
SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares that restaurants role in the states tourism and agricultural industries is a matter of statewide concern and is not a municipal affair as that term is used in Section 5 of Article XI of the California Constitution. Therefore, Section 1 of this act adding Chapter 14 (commencing with Section 66345) to Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code applies to all cities, including charter cities.
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SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because a local agency or school district has the authority to levy service charges, fees, or assessments sufficient to pay for the program or level of service mandated by this act, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code.
SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because a local agency or school district has the authority to levy service charges, fees, or assessments sufficient to pay for the program or level of service mandated by this act, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code.
SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because a local agency or school district has the authority to levy service charges, fees, or assessments sufficient to pay for the program or level of service mandated by this act, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code.
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If a department within the California Health and Human Services Agency has received approval of an operational state plan by a federal agency, or has applied and has been approved for a waiver from a federal law or federal regulation, the department shall make any and all approved plans and waivers available to the public by publishing a hyperlink to that information on the homepage of the departments internet website.