Connecticut House Bill HB05182

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/18
• Refer: 2/21/18
• Report Pass: 3/16/18
• Refer: 3/28/18
• Report Pass: 4/4/18
• Engrossed: 4/26/18
• Report Pass: 4/30/18

Caption

An Act Concerning The Assessment Of Certain Fees By Building Officials.

Impact

The enactment of HB 05182 is expected to reinforce the integrity of the State Building Code and improve public safety by ensuring adherence to necessary permits before construction activities begin. By allowing for increased fees for those who engage in unpermitted work, the bill aims to deter violations and encourage builders and contractors to follow proper protocols. This could potentially reduce the frequency of unsafe building practices and the risks associated with unregulated construction.

Summary

House Bill 05182 focuses on the assessment of fees by building officials, specifically addressing the penalties associated with violations of the State Building Code. The bill introduces a structure for imposing fees when work on buildings or essential systems is commenced without the necessary permits. It stipulates that offenders may face fines or imprisonment, and introduces a fee structure that allows building officials to impose additional fees that could be twice the standard permit fees for unpermitted work. This approach aims to enhance compliance with building regulations by increasing the financial consequences of violations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 05182 appears to be generally positive among proponents who view it as a necessary measure to strengthen enforcement of building regulations. Supporters argue that clear financial penalties will promote compliance with building codes and ultimately protect public safety. Conversely, some opposition may stem from concerns about the financial burden that increased fees could place on smaller builders or homeowners who may inadvertently commence work without proper permits.

Contention

A notable point of contention regarding HB 05182 involves the balance between regulatory enforcement and the impact on smaller construction projects or renovations undertaken by individuals. Critics may argue that imposing steep fees can create barriers for property owners who are unaware of the required permits, thus making compliance more challenging. Additionally, there may be discussions about the extent to which individual municipalities should have discretion over fee assessments and how this aligns with broader state regulatory frameworks.