Connecticut House Bill HB05751

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/17
• Refer: 1/17/17

Caption

An Act Concerning Building Permits.

Impact

This legislative change is intended to streamline the process for homeowners and developers by eliminating unnecessary paperwork and potential delays associated with obtaining the 'six-year letter'. By allowing permits to close automatically after a set period, it also aims to encourage timely completion of construction projects, ensuring that properties comply with local building codes and safety regulations more efficiently. This could potentially benefit municipalities by reducing the administrative burden related to permit management.

Summary

House Bill 05751 is an act concerning building permits, specifically aimed at modifying the existing laws governing the duration for which a building permit remains valid. The bill proposes that building permits for one-family and two-family dwellings, along with structures on the same parcel, should automatically be deemed closed nine years after issuance if a certificate of occupancy has not been obtained. This changes the current requirement where property owners must secure a 'six-year letter' to confirm the status of a building permit that has been open for more than six years.

Contention

While the bill appears beneficial in terms of simplifying procedures, there may be concerns among stakeholders regarding the implications of automatically closing permits. Critics may argue that this could disadvantage property owners who may have legitimate delays in construction due to various reasons, such as financial constraints or unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, there is a concern about the potential for abandoned projects, which could affect local property values and neighborhood aesthetics. Hence, some in the community may see this as a measure that pressures property owners rather than assists them.