TX HB2977

Allows applicants for development documents (plats, permits, development plans) to obtain third-party review from qualified professionals instead of waiting for regulatory authority review, removing the previous requirement that authorities must first miss a 15-day deadline

Permits landowners or improvement owners to obtain third-party development inspections from qualified inspectors without first requiring the regulatory authority to miss inspection deadlines

Qualified third-party reviewers include employees of the regulatory authority, approved employees of other political subdivisions, or licensed engineers; qualified inspectors also include International Code Council certified building inspectors

Prohibits regulatory authorities from requiring applicants to waive their right to third-party review, waive deadlines under the chapter, or obtain additional regulatory authority approval after a third-party reviewer has approved a document or inspection

Third-party reviewers must conduct reviews and inspections in accordance with all applicable laws as if they were the regulatory authority, and must notify the regulatory authority of results within 15 days of completion