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.
Adopt the State Building Construction Alternatives Act and change and eliminate provisions regarding planning, bidding, construction, and procurement of art for state buildings
Providing for the capital budget for fiscal year 2025-2026; itemizing public improvement projects, furniture and equipment projects, transportation assistance, redevelopment assistance projects, flood control projects and Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission projects leased or assisted by the Department of General Services and other State agencies, together with their estimated financial costs; authorizing the incurring of debt without the approval of the electors for the purpose of financing the projects to be constructed, acquired or assisted by the Department of General Services and other State agencies; authorizing the use of current revenue for the purpose of financing the projects to be constructed, acquired or assisted by the Department of General Services and other State agencies stating the estimated useful life of the projects; and making appropriations.
Providing for the capital budget for fiscal year 2025-2026; itemizing public improvement projects, furniture and equipment projects, transportation assistance, redevelopment assistance projects, flood control projects and Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission projects leased or assisted by the Department of General Services and other State agencies, together with their estimated financial costs; authorizing the incurring of debt without the approval of the electors for the purpose of financing the projects to be constructed, acquired or assisted by the Department of General Services and other State agencies; authorizing the use of current revenue for the purpose of financing the projects to be constructed, acquired or assisted by the Department of General Services and other State agencies stating the estimated useful life of the projects; and making appropriations.