relative to third-party code review and inspection services for building permits.

HB 1271 clarifies definitions and expands the use of third-party inspectors for building permits in New Hampshire, primarily affecting property owners and contractors installing solar energy systems. The bill defines "approved agencies" (including engineers, architects, and licensed electricians) to review construction documents and inspect buildings, including solar photovoltaic arrays and battery storage. It requires municipalities to grant approved agencies equal access to permit documents and mandates acceptance of solar applications submitted through an online "instant permitting platform," which automatically approves applications unless deficiencies are noted within 5 business days. This streamlines solar project approvals while maintaining state code compliance oversight.