NC S275

Local governments must complete review of sealed commercial and multifamily building plans and issue permit decisions within 21 days, or 15 days after receiving requested changes, unless parties agree otherwise.

Local governments may contract with the Department of Insurance's marketplace pool of qualified code-enforcement officials or licensed professionals to conduct plan reviews within the established timeframes.

If a local government cannot meet the review timelines, permit applicants may hire third-party reviewers (Department of Insurance pool or licensed professionals) to certify plan compliance, requiring local governments to issue permits within 72 hours and refund or waive all review and permit fees.

Local governments are released from liability for plans reviewed by third-party reviewers under the permit applicant election option.

Local governments cannot delay or deny permits based on missing manufacturer specifications or engineering information for specific elements, components, or fixtures.