Permitting reform: The key to unlocking housing and energy affordability

For years, homeowners and builders have been trapped in a cycle of waiting — waiting for permits, waiting for inspections, and waiting for approvals that can take months or even years to arrive. Now, policymakers across the country are taking a fresh look at outdated permitting processes, and they’re beginning to cut the red tape that has made building so costly.

With support from homeowners, environmental advocates, and small businesses alike, reforming outdated permitting systems is becoming a bipartisan, cross-industry priority.

Last year, Texas passed legislation to reduce unnecessary permit delays and encourage clean-energy upgrades. Senate Bill 1202 streamlines approval for residential solar panels and energy storage systems by allowing qualified third parties to review plans and conduct inspections. Under the law, reviewers must deliver results within 15 days, and regulators then have just two days to issue approvals — after which construction can begin immediately. The reform earned support from