Planning and zoning: housing development projects: postentitlement phase permits: state agencies.

Assembly Members Schiavo and Rivas have proposed extending California's housing permit streamlining requirements to state agencies, building upon existing rules that currently apply only to local governments. The legislation requires state agencies to publish detailed permit application requirements and example approvals on their websites by January 2026, mirroring local agency obligations that take effect in 2024.

The bill establishes strict timelines for state agencies to review postentitlement phase permits for housing developments. Agencies must determine application completeness within 15 business days and complete permit reviews within 30 business days for projects with 25 or fewer units, or 60 business days for larger developments. If agencies fail to meet these deadlines, permits are automatically approved. The requirements apply to permits needed to begin construction of developments that are at least two-thirds residential, though certain environmental and water quality permits are excluded.

The measure includes provisions for applicants to appeal permit decisions to agency governing bodies, with appeals to be resolved within 60-90 business days depending on project size. While agencies retain flexibility to provide feedback and request revisions, they cannot impose requirements beyond their published criteria or extend review timelines without mutual agreement. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage, with authors citing urgent needs related to natural disasters and housing availability.