Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB188

Introduced
4/3/23  
Refer
4/3/23  
Report Pass
1/11/24  
Engrossed
1/16/24  
Refer
2/7/24  
Enrolled
2/19/24  
Vetoed
3/29/24  

Caption

Permission to start construction of a commercial building before plan approval. (FE)

Impact

The bill's introduction is seen as a response to the need for a more efficient permitting process that can facilitate timely construction in the commercial sector. By codifying the authority for these 'permission to start' letters, SB188 aims to reduce delays that previously occurred while businesses awaited full plan approvals. This adjustment could lower overall construction costs by enabling builders to initiate essential groundwork sooner, thus potentially accelerating project completion and alleviating backlogs in commercial construction.

Summary

Senate Bill 188, introduced in April 2023, aims to streamline the construction process for commercial buildings by allowing building owners to start certain construction activities before obtaining complete plan approval. Specifically, the bill permits owners to begin work on underground plumbing and exterior plumbing, as well as footings and foundations, while their plans are under review by the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) or local governments. This concept of 'permission to start' construction provides clarity and establishes formal criteria for such early commencement of work, which is currently based on administrative rules rather than statutory authority.

Contention

While the bill is designed to enhance operational efficiency, there are concerns regarding its implications for safety and regulatory compliance. Critics worry that allowing construction to commence before full plan approvals could lead to safety oversight issues, as the current statutes emphasize the requirement for a licensed architect or professional engineer to uphold responsibility for the plans. The tension arises from balancing the need for expedited construction processes against the necessity of maintaining rigorous safety standards and ensuring that buildings are designed and constructed in compliance with the established regulations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI AB199

Permission to start construction of a commercial building before plan approval. (FE)

WI SB186

Procedures for reviewing commercial building plans. (FE)

WI AB197

Procedures for reviewing commercial building plans. (FE)

WI SB187

Local government review of commercial building plans. (FE)

WI AB198

Local government review of commercial building plans. (FE)

WI S3066

Prohibits construction of commercial or industrial buildings within certain distance of residential homes without homeowner approval; requires development of waiver form to allow construction of commercial or industrial buildings.

WI H893

Private Commercial Building Inspection

WI AB671

Accelerated restaurant building plan approval: California Retail Food Code: tenant improvements.

WI HB4080

Public buildings and public works; bonding; contracting; construction; construction management; emergencies; school buildings; wildlife conservation; bids; payment; fees; State Construction Revolving Fund; effective date.

WI HB2297

Commercial buildings; adaptive reuse

Similar Bills

HI HB1223

Relating To Capital Improvement Projects For The Benefit Of The Thirty-eighth Representative District.

HI SB1603

Relating To Capital Improvement Projects For The Benefit Of The Third Senatorial District.

HI SB3310

Relating To Capital Improvement Projects For The Benefit Of The Third Senatorial District.

HI SB1575

Relating To Capital Improvement Projects For The Benefit Of The Third Senatorial District.

HI SB1575

Relating To Capital Improvement Projects For The Benefit Of The Third Senatorial District.

HI SB1408

Relating To Capital Improvement Projects For The Benefit Of The Third Senatorial District.

HI HB2352

Relating To Capital Improvement Projects For The Benefit Of The Forty-first Representative District.

HI HB1369

Relating To Capital Improvement Projects For The Benefit Of The Forty-fifth Representative District.