CA AB1693

Creates a streamlined permit approval process for retail tenant improvements, allowing licensed architects or engineers with 5+ years of commercial building experience and $2 million in liability insurance to certify plan compliance with building codes

Requires local building departments to approve or deny certified permit applications within 20 business days; applications are automatically deemed approved if no decision is made within that timeframe

Limits local building department review of resubmitted plans to only the deficiencies identified in the initial denial, with a 10 business day approval/denial deadline for resubmissions

Mandates local building departments conduct random audits of at least 20% of certified tenant improvements weekly, with audits initiated within 5 business days of permit issuance

Makes qualified professional certifiers liable for damages from negligent plan review and requires permit applicants to indemnify local agencies from property damage or personal injury arising from permitted construction