AB 1693: Accelerated retailer building plan approval: tenant improvements.

This bill establishes a streamlined approval process for local permits related to tenant improvements for retailers. A qualified professional certifier, typically a licensed architect or engineer, will certify that plans and specifications comply with building, health, and safety codes. The local building department will review the application within 20 business days and may approve or deny it. If denied, the applicant can resubmit corrected plans within 10 business days. The bill also requires audits of tenant improvements and authorizes cities or counties to adopt additional qualifications or requirements for qualified professional certifiers. It makes these certifiers liable for damages arising from negligent plan review and requires applicants to indemnify local agencies from property damage or personal injury. The bill exempts ministerial projects from the California Environmental…