Texas Senate Bill 1202 (SB1202) - Effective Date: September 1, 2025
What it does: Allows Texas homeowners to use certified third-party professionals instead of municipal building departments for solar and battery permit reviews.
Who qualifies as third-party reviewers: (1) Texas-licensed Professional Engineers (PE) with active registration, (2) NABCEP-certified solar professionals with current credentials, (3) Texas Master Electricians with TDLR licenses, (4) ICC-certified building inspectors with liability insurance.
What systems are covered: Solar panels, battery storage (Tesla Powerwall, Enphase Encharge, LG Chem RESU), hybrid solar-plus-battery systems, standby generators—all for one- or two-family dwellings at 600 volts or less.
Timeline breakdown:
Cost breakdown:
Geographic scope: All 254 Texas counties and municipalities.
Since taking effect four months ago, SB1202 has transformed solar permitting across Texas by introducing an optional third-party review pathway that runs parallel to traditional municipal processes. The law addresses a critical bottleneck: many Texas communities experienced permitting delays ranging from several weeks to multiple months for straightforward rooftop solar installations, according to a March 2025 report by Environment Texas Research and Policy Center and the Texas Solar Energy Society.
The fundamental mechanics are straightforward: Instead of submitting your solar permit application exclusively to your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) - typically your city or county building department- you can now hire a qualified third-party professional to perform the plan review, inspection, or both. Once the third-party completes their review and notifies the AHJ, you can begin construction immediately. The AHJ then has exactly two business days to issue final certification.
This matters because Texas ranks third nationally in total residential solar generation but only 20th in per-capita small-scale solar adoption. According to a February 2023 University of Houston poll, 64% of Texas homeowners express interest in purchasing solar energy systems, yet bureaucratic delays have been a significant barrier. SB1202 removes that obstacle.
Senate Bill 1202, authored by Senator Phil King, extends Texas's existing "shot clock" approach from general building permits to specifically cover residential backup power systems. The official bill text defines these systems as electric generating facilities, energy storage facilities, standby systems, and associated infrastructure for one- or two-family dwellings connected at 600 volts or less. This includes solar panels, battery storage systems like Tesla Powerwall or Enphase Encharge, standby generators, and hybrid systems.
The shot clock mechanism works like this: Traditional building permit processes in Texas already had deadlines for municipal review. If an AHJ failed to act within the specified timeframe, applicants could use qualified third-party reviewers as an alternative. SB1202 extends this framework specifically to home backup power installations with tighter deadlines and clearer procedures.
The law passed during the 89th Texas Legislative Session with bipartisan support. It was sent to Governor Greg Abbott on May 28, 2025, and because it was sent with less than 10 days remaining in the legislative session, the governor had 20 days after the session adjourned to act. Abbott did not veto the legislation, allowing it to become law by default on September 1, 2025.
Why this timing matters: Texas experienced devastating winter storm outages in February 2021 that left millions without power for days. Since then, homeowner interest in backup power systems has surged. However, municipal permitting infrastructure couldn't keep pace with demand, creating months-long backlogs in many jurisdictions. SB1202 addresses this capacity mismatch by allowing the private sector to supplement municipal permitting capabilities.
Understanding the mechanics of third-party permitting versus traditional processes is essential for successfully navigating SB1202. For comparison, California has implemented similar streamlined permitting initiatives that Texas homeowners can learn from.
Traditional Process (Before SB1202):
Total traditional timeline: 6-20+ weeks from application to certificate
New Third-Party Process (Under SB1202):
Total third-party timeline: 1-3 weeks from application to certificate
Key advantages are speed and cost: Third-party reviewers can complete plan reviews much faster than backlogged municipal departments. Some utilize automated permitting software like SolarAPP+, which can process straightforward residential solar applications in minutes to hours. Additionally, because AHJs cannot charge plan review or inspection fees for third-party work, homeowners avoid municipal permit fees entirely, though they pay the third-party reviewer directly (typically $300-$700 depending on system complexity).
Critical limitation: SB1202 applies only to building permits for home backup power installations. It does not address utility interconnection requirements. You'll still need to work with your transmission and distribution utility (TDU), electric cooperative, or municipally owned utility for interconnection approval, which follows separate timelines and requirements. However, many utilities require an AHJ-issued permit before granting interconnection approval, which you'll receive within the two-business-day window after third-party approval.
Your installer plays the central role in the third-party permitting process because they typically coordinate third-party reviewer selection and manage documentation preparation. When evaluating installers, ask these specific questions:
Reputable installers have established relationships with qualified third-party reviewers and have refined documentation processes since September 2025.
Third-party reviewers need comprehensive documentation to approve your project. While specific requirements may vary by reviewer and jurisdiction, typical documentation includes:
Site and Property Information:
System Design Documentation:
Code Compliance Documentation:
Professional Certifications:
Your installer should prepare all documentation, but understanding requirements helps you verify completeness and avoid delays.
Once documentation is complete, your installer submits it to the chosen third-party reviewer. Review timelines typically are:
The third-party reviewer verifies that your system design complies with current National Electrical Code requirements, meets structural requirements for your specific roof type, satisfies local setback and pathway requirements, includes proper safety systems, and uses appropriately sized conductors and grounding.
If the reviewer identifies issues, they work with your installer to make corrections before approval. Once satisfied, the reviewer approves the project and prepares documentation of their review.
This is where SB1202's power becomes apparent. The third-party reviewer notifies your local AHJ that they have reviewed and approved your installation. Per Section 247.004, they must provide this notice within 15 days of completing their review. They submit completed plan review documentation, inspection reports, professional certifications, and statement of compliance.
Critical timeline trigger: Once the AHJ receives this notification and documentation, Section 247.0025(e) requires them to issue final approval "not later than the second business day after the date the authority receives the notice." This is a hard two-business-day deadline with no exceptions.
Construction authorization: Per Section 247.0025(f), "A person may begin construction of a home backup power installation on submission of the notice prescribed by Section 247.004(a)." This means you can start installation immediately when the third-party submits their approval notice, you do not have to wait for the AHJ's final certification. This eliminates weeks of waiting and allows projects to move forward on your schedule.
With third-party approval submitted and construction authorization in effect, your installer can begin work. They may also conduct the final inspection after installation completes. The third-party then notifies the AHJ of successful final inspection, triggering the same two-business-day deadline for AHJ to issue final certification.
With your AHJ permit and final certification in hand, you proceed with solar interconnection. This process is separate from SB1202 and varies by utility provider. Your installer should manage interconnection, which typically involves submitting the application, utility review (2-8 weeks), meter installation, utility approval, and system energization.
According to Section 247.002, qualified third-party reviewers must meet specific professional standards. Acceptable qualifications include:
Professional Engineers (PE): Licensed in Texas by Texas Board of Professional Engineers, relevant discipline (electrical, structural, or civil engineering), active registration status, must provide PE stamp and Texas firm registration number.
Master Electricians: Licensed by Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), active Master Electrician license in good standing, must provide TDLR license number.
NABCEP Certified Professionals: North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners certification, relevant certification level (PV Installation Professional or PV Technical Sales preferred), current certification status.
ICC Certified Building Officials or Inspectors: International Code Council certifications, relevant specialty certifications, professional liability insurance coverage.
Important Restriction: Per SB1202, the third-party reviewer cannot be the homeowner or the installer. This independence requirement prevents conflicts of interest.
Before accepting a third-party reviewer recommended by your installer, independently verify:
Professional Credentials:
Insurance and Liability:
Experience and Expertise:
Be cautious if you encounter reviewers who cannot promptly provide current license documentation, are unwilling to provide insurance certificates, promise approval before reviewing documentation, work exclusively with single installer, charge significantly lower fees ($200 or less), resist answering questions about qualifications, have no written review standards, or make extremely fast turnaround promises that seem unrealistic.
Traditional AHJ Permitting Costs Typically Include plan review fee ($200-$800), building permit fee ($150-$500), electrical permit fee ($100-$300), inspection fees ($75-$200), and re-inspection fees ($50-$150). Total typical range for 8-10kW residential system: $525-$1,950.
Third-Party Permitting Costs Include third-party plan review fee ($300-$700 depending on system size), third-party inspection fee ($200-$400 if separate), and minimal AHJ administrative processing fee (some jurisdictions: $25-$100). Total typical range: $300-$800.
Net direct savings: $200-$1,150 per project
Important note on AHJ fees: Section 247.003 states clearly that "A regulatory authority may not impose a fee related to the review of a development document or the inspection of an improvement conducted under this chapter." This means AHJs cannot charge plan review fees or inspection fees when third-party services are used.
For a typical 8kW residential solar system:
Austin: Traditional $650 vs. Third-Party $450 = Savings ~$200
Houston: Traditional $875 vs. Third-Party $500 = Savings ~$375
Dallas: Traditional $750 vs. Third-Party $525 = Savings ~$225
San Antonio: Traditional $700 vs. Third-Party $475 = Savings ~$225
Fort Worth: Traditional $700 vs. Third-Party $500 = Savings ~$200
Smaller Cities/Rural: Traditional $500-$1,200 vs. Third-Party $400-$650 = Savings $100-$550
Cost Disclaimer: Cost estimates are based on typical 2025-2026 fee schedules and are provided for comparison only. Actual costs vary by jurisdiction, system size, and complexity. Contact your local building department for current fees.
Beyond direct permit fees, third-party permitting reduces soft costs through earlier system energization, more months of solar production and utility bill savings in first year, locking in current equipment pricing before increases, and avoiding seasonal weather delays.
According to analysis by Brown University's Climate Solutions Lab cited in multiple sources, widespread adoption of automated permitting tools like SolarAPP+ could reduce total rooftop solar system costs in Texas by $2,100 per system by 2030 and $4,900 per system by 2040.
Best Case: 6 weeks from application to certificate (efficient, well-staffed jurisdiction) Average Case: 11 weeks from application to certificate (typical Texas jurisdiction with moderate backlog) Worst Case: 20+ weeks from application to certificate (severely backlogged or under-resourced jurisdiction)
Understanding realistic solar permit timelines by state helps set proper expectations.
Typical Third-Party Timeline: Day 1 submit to reviewer, Day 1-3 plan review (or same-day with SolarAPP+), Day 2-4 third-party notifies AHJ, Day 2-4 construction begins immediately, Day 3-6 installation completed, Day 7 final inspection, Day 8 notify AHJ, Day 9-10 AHJ issues certificate. Total: 1.5-2 weeks from application to certificate.
Complex System Timeline: 2-3 weeks from application to certificate for larger arrays, battery integration, or structural concerns.
Faster permitting timelines provide financial benefits (earlier ROI, more solar production in first year, lock in pricing), practical benefits (less disruption, reduced scheduling complexity), and market-level benefits (installers serve more customers, increased efficiency, predictable timelines encourage adoption).
Important Timeline Information: The timeline projections presented in this guide reflect typical scenarios based on available data as of 2025-2026 and should not be relied upon as guarantees of specific project completion dates. While Texas SB1202 establishes mandatory deadlines for certain steps (2 business days for AHJ final certification per Section 247.0025(e), 15 days for third-party notification per Section 247.004(a)(2)), overall project timelines depend on numerous variables outside these statutory requirements. Homeowners should obtain project-specific timeline estimates from their installer and third-party reviewer and build appropriate contingency time into project planning. Past performance and industry averages do not guarantee future results for any specific installation.
Phase 1: Documentation (Days 1-3) Document everything (save emails, screenshots, timestamps). Request written explanation of delay or fees. Provide SB1202 statute sections to AHJ staff.
Phase 2: Internal Escalation (Days 4-7) Request supervisor review. Contact building official or department director. Address any legitimate documentation concerns.
Phase 3: External Support (Days 8-14) Contact Texas Solar Energy Society for guidance. Reach out to Environment Texas for advocacy support. Engage elected officials (city council member or county commissioner).
Phase 4: Formal Action (Days 15+) Consult attorney specializing in administrative law. Consider mandamus action (court order compelling official to perform statutory duty). File formal complaint with Texas Attorney General's office.
Third-Party Reviewer Liability: Professionally liable for damages resulting from negligent acts in conducting reviews or inspections. Their professional liability insurance protects against these claims.
Installer Liability: Remains fully responsible for installation quality. Must install according to approved plans, use licensed workers, follow manufacturer specifications, comply with codes, carry appropriate insurance, and provide warranties.
AHJ Protection: Section 247.005 states AHJs are not liable for damages resulting from third-party reviews.
Homeowner Protection: Protected by multiple layers including third-party insurance ($1-2 million coverage), installer liability insurance, equipment warranties (25 years panels, 10-15 years inverters), homeowners insurance, and legal recourse under Texas tort law.
The concern that installers hiring reviewers creates bias is legitimate but manageable through multiple safeguards:
Process red flags: Unrealistically quick review completion, unable to explain methodology, no written report, unwilling to answer technical questions, generic approval language.
Credential red flags: Vague about qualifications, no professional liability insurance, recent disciplinary actions.
Business practice red flags: Works exclusively with single installer, significantly cheaper than competitors, promises approval before seeing documentation, 100% approval rate without corrections.
AHJ Inspector Reality: Often generalists covering multiple construction types, may have limited solar-specific training, subject to workload pressures, variable quality, limited liability exposure.
Third-Party Reviewer Reality: Often specialists in solar or electrical systems, many have engineering degrees, use standardized checklists, professionally liable for errors, stay current on code changes, business depends on quality reputation.
The key is choosing qualified, reputable third-party reviewers with appropriate credentials and incentives for thorough work.
The law covers home battery systems (Tesla Powerwall, Enphase Encharge, LG Chem RESU, Generac PWRcell), energy storage facilities for one- or two-family dwellings, systems connected at 600 volts or less, battery backup integrated with solar (hybrid systems), standalone battery systems without solar, and standby generator systems.
Battery installations typically require enhanced safety documentation (battery specifications, thermal management, fire suppression measures, emergency shutdown, ventilation, battery management system), electrical integration requirements (critical loads panel, automatic transfer switch, main service modifications, islanding protection, backup loads calculation), and structural considerations (weight calculations, floor loading verification, wall mounting adequacy, seismic anchoring, environmental conditions).
Third-party reviewers must verify battery system compliance with NEC Article 706 (Energy Storage Systems), manufacturer installation requirements (temperature range, clearances, mounting methods, ventilation), and local code amendments (some jurisdictions have additional battery safety requirements beyond base NEC).
Third-Party Review Costs: Solar-only (8-10kW): $300-$500. Solar + battery (8-10kW solar with 10-15kWh battery): $450-$700. Standalone battery: $400-$600.
The cost increase reflects additional complexity in electrical design, critical loads analysis, transfer switch verification, and battery-specific code compliance.
Timeline Considerations: Battery systems may take 2-5 business days for review instead of same-day approval. Hybrid systems more likely to require manual review. Overall timeline still dramatically faster: third-party 1-2 weeks total vs. traditional AHJ 4-8 weeks for battery systems. Time savings: 2-6 weeks even for complex battery installations.
Mistake 1: Assuming Third-Party is Always Faster Reality: Complex systems, incomplete documentation, or overburdened reviewers can cause delays. Plan for realistic timelines (minimum 1-2 weeks), ensure complete documentation, choose experienced reviewers with capacity, and have backup plan.
Mistake 2: Not Verifying Qualifications Independently Reality: Not all reviewers hold current, valid credentials. Independently verify PE license, Master Electrician license, NABCEP certification, insurance coverage, and check for disciplinary actions.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Utility Interconnection Reality: SB1202 only addresses building permits. Utility interconnection is separate and often takes as long. Submit utility application early, understand your utility's timeline, plan for delays, verify requirements, and confirm net metering availability.
Mistake 4: Inadequate Documentation Reality: Third-party reviewers cannot approve incomplete applications. Use experienced installer, review comprehensive checklist, confirm completeness before submission, and build in buffer for supplemental documentation.
Mistake 5: Not Understanding AHJ-Specific Requirements Reality: Local code amendments vary significantly by jurisdiction. Contact building department early, ask about notification procedures, local amendments, administrative fees, required formats, and verify automated tool usage.
Mistake 6: Forgetting HOA Approval Reality: SB1202 does not override HOA covenants. Review HOA documents, submit architectural application if required, run HOA approval parallel to building permit, note Texas laws limit HOA denial ability, factor HOA timeline into schedule, and consider HOA-compliant approaches.
Mistake 7: Overlooking Equipment Placement Restrictions Reality: Equipment must meet specific placement requirements. Review IRC Section R324.6 pathway requirements (3-foot pathway to ridge, 1.5-foot at edges), verify equipment cannot be ahead of front building line, confirm no utility easement encroachment, check distance from roof edges, ensure setbacks from property lines, have survey before finalizing layout, and consider aesthetics beyond code compliance.
Mistake 8: Not Planning for Issues Reality: Unexpected issues can arise. Choose quality installers, understand correction procedures, verify installer warranty, have contingency budget (5-10% reserve), know your recourse options, and consider payment structure withholding final payment until certification.
Texas SB1202, now in effect for four months since September 1, 2025, represents a significant opportunity for homeowners to install solar panels and battery backup systems faster and more affordably. By allowing qualified third-party professionals to review and approve residential solar projects, the law removes one of the most significant barriers to solar adoption in Texas.
Key Takeaways: Third-party permitting typically delivers 1-3 weeks from application to final certification versus 6-20 weeks through traditional AHJ review (time savings of 5-17 weeks). Most homeowners save $200-$850 in direct permit costs. When you choose qualified, properly insured third-party reviewers and reputable installers, quality and safety standards are maintained or exceeded. You have clear legal rights including the two-business-day AHJ approval requirement and fee restrictions. Multiple layers of liability protection safeguard your investment.
Your Action Plan: Research installers with demonstrated SB1202 experience since September 2025. Verify qualifications independently for both installer and third-party reviewer. Contact your AHJ to learn their specific procedures. Ensure all required plans, calculations, and specifications are ready before submission. Hold AHJ accountable to two-business-day requirement and document delays. Plan for utility interconnection separately (4-8 weeks). Run HOA architectural approval parallel to building permits if needed. Keep detailed records of all submissions and communications.
The Bigger Picture: SB1202 is part of Texas's evolution toward a more resilient, distributed energy system. By making it easier for homeowners to install solar and battery backup, the law reduces pressure on the centralized grid, improves residential resilience against outages, accelerates clean energy adoption, creates jobs in solar installation and engineering, positions Texas to meet growing electricity demand, and demonstrates bipartisan solutions to energy challenges are achievable.
As of January 2026, SB1202 is still relatively new with only four months of implementation. According to PV Magazine USA, procedures continue to evolve as AHJs adapt processes, third-party reviewers build capacity, and installers refine documentation approaches. The most successful solar homeowners will be those who understand the law's provisions and their rights, work with qualified professionals experienced in SB1202 processes, advocate for compliance when necessary, and share their experiences to help subsequent homeowners.
By following the guidance in this comprehensive solar permit guide, you're equipped to navigate third-party solar permitting successfully. Understanding proper wire management and conduit installation along with supply-side vs. load-side interconnection methods will help ensure your installation meets all code requirements.
For homeowners concerned about specific NEC fuse servicing requirements or other technical details, working with experienced third-party reviewers familiar with NREL's automated permitting research ensures your system will pass inspection the first time.
The sky truly is the limit for solar energy in Texas, and SB1202 just removed a major obstacle to reaching that potential. With proper planning, qualified professionals, and understanding of the process, your solar installation can move from concept to energized system in weeks rather than months.
How long does it take to get a solar permit in Texas with SB1202?
With Texas SB1202's third-party permitting option, you can get your solar permit approved in as little as 1-3 weeks from application to final certification. The third-party reviewer typically completes their plan review in 1-5 business days for standard residential systems, or even same-day if they use automated tools like SolarAPP+. Once the third-party notifies your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), the AHJ must issue final certification within 2 business days by law. Construction can begin immediately upon third-party approval without waiting for the AHJ's final certification. This is dramatically faster than traditional permitting, which typically takes 6-20 weeks in Texas depending on the jurisdiction's backlog and staffing levels.
Does SB1202 apply to solar systems with battery storage?
Yes, Texas SB1202 explicitly covers battery storage systems in addition to solar panels. The law defines "home backup power installation" to include electric generating facilities, energy storage facilities, and standby systems for one- or two-family dwellings connected at 600 volts or less. This means you can use third-party permitting for solar-only systems, battery-only systems, or hybrid solar-plus-battery installations like Tesla Powerwall or Enphase Encharge systems. Battery systems may require slightly more detailed review (typically 2-5 business days instead of same-day) due to additional safety considerations under NEC Article 706, including thermal management, fire protection, and transfer switch operation. However, third-party permitting for battery systems still saves 2-6 weeks compared to traditional AHJ review processes.
How much does third-party solar permitting cost in Texas?
Third-party solar permitting in Texas typically costs between $300-$800 total, compared to traditional AHJ permit fees of $525-$1,950 for a typical 8-10kW residential system. The third-party reviewer charges $300-$700 depending on system complexity, and some jurisdictions may charge a minimal administrative processing fee of $25-$100. Importantly, Texas SB1202 Section 247.003 explicitly prohibits AHJs from charging plan review or inspection fees when third-party services are used, which is where most of the savings come from. For solar-plus-battery systems, third-party review costs are typically $450-$700 due to additional complexity, but this still represents significant savings of $200-$1,150 compared to traditional permitting. The cost savings increase in rural areas or smaller cities where traditional permit fees tend to be higher due to limited staffing.
Can I start installing solar panels before my city issues the final permit under SB1202?
Yes, Texas SB1202 Section 247.0025(f) explicitly states that "A person may begin construction of a home backup power installation on submission of the notice prescribed by Section 247.004(a)." This means once your qualified third-party reviewer completes their approval and notifies your local AHJ, you can immediately begin installation without waiting for the AHJ to issue their final certification. The AHJ still has 2 business days to issue the final permit after receiving the third-party's notice, but construction authorization begins immediately upon third-party notification. This provision eliminates weeks of waiting that was common under traditional permitting, where homeowners had to wait for final permit issuance before any work could begin. Your installer can start mounting panels, running conduit, and making electrical connections as soon as the third-party approval is submitted to the city or county.
What happens if my city refuses to accept third-party solar permit approval?
If your Texas city or county refuses to accept third-party solar permit approval, they are violating state law under SB1202. You should first request a written explanation of the delay or refusal and provide the AHJ with copies of SB1202 Sections 247.0025 and 247.003, which require acceptance of qualified third-party approvals and mandate final permit issuance within 2 business days. Escalate to the building official or department director if front-line staff are non-compliant. Contact the Texas Solar Energy Society or Environment Texas for advocacy support, as these organizations actively monitor SB1202 implementation. Engage your city council member or county commissioner to request intervention and policy clarification. As a last resort, consult with an attorney about a mandamus action (a court order compelling the government official to perform their statutory duty). Many compliance issues stem from staff unfamiliarity with the relatively new law (effective only since September 2025), so a professional, educational approach citing specific statute sections often resolves the issue before requiring legal action.
Who can perform third-party solar permit reviews in Texas under SB1202?
Qualified third-party reviewers under Texas SB1202 must hold specific professional credentials including: Texas-licensed Professional Engineers (PE) in relevant disciplines like electrical or structural engineering with active registration through the Texas Board of Professional Engineers; Texas-licensed Master Electricians with current licenses through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR); NABCEP-certified professionals with current certifications as PV Installation Professionals or PV Technical Sales; or ICC-certified building officials or inspectors with relevant specialty certifications. All third-party reviewers must carry professional liability insurance (errors and omissions coverage) and cannot be the homeowner or the installer themselves to maintain independence. You should independently verify credentials through the Texas Board of Professional Engineers website (pels.texas.gov), TDLR (tdlr.texas.gov), or NABCEP (nabcep.org) rather than relying solely on documentation provided by the installer or reviewer.
Does SB1202 eliminate the need for utility interconnection approval?
No, Texas SB1202 only addresses building permits issued by local authorities; it does not eliminate or streamline utility interconnection requirements. After obtaining your building permit through third-party review, you must still complete a separate interconnection application process with your electric utility provider, whether that's a Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU) like Oncor or CenterPoint, an electric cooperative, or a municipally-owned utility. Utility interconnection timelines typically range from 2-8 weeks depending on the specific utility and your system configuration. The utility reviews your system specifications, determines interconnection requirements, may install a production meter or net meter, and eventually issues Permission to Operate (PTO) authorizing you to energize your system. Smart homeowners submit their utility interconnection application early (ideally before or concurrent with their building permit application) to avoid waiting for utility approval after their building permit is already complete. This parallel processing maximizes the time-saving benefits of SB1202's fast building permit process.
What is the two-business-day requirement in Texas SB1202?
The two-business-day requirement in Texas SB1202 Section 247.0025(e) mandates that local authorities (AHJs) must issue final approval, permit, or certification "not later than the second business day after the date the authority receives the notice" from a qualified third-party reviewer. This is a hard statutory deadline with no exceptions for backlog, staffing issues, or other delays. The clock starts when the AHJ receives the third-party's notification and complete documentation of their review and approval. For example, if the third-party submits their approval notice on Monday, the AHJ must issue final certification by Wednesday (2 business days later). This requirement prevents the weeks-long delays that were common under traditional permitting processes. If an AHJ fails to meet this deadline, homeowners can request written explanation, escalate to supervisors, contact advocacy organizations, engage elected officials, or pursue legal remedies including mandamus actions to compel compliance.
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