Committee approves bill to allow limited remote video inspections for specified low-risk work

Assemblymember Carrillo told the committee AB 17 38 would let building departments conduct remote video inspections for a limited set of low-risk permit types to reduce backlogs and move projects forward.

Colleen Corrigan of Spur, a cosponsor, told the committee that remote inspections have been used successfully in at least 20 California jurisdictions and are endorsed by HUD and the National Fire Protection Association. "Remote inspections are a proven and practical solution endorsed by HUD..." she said.

Timothy Wagner, chief building official for Placer County, described his countys six-year remote-inspection program, which the county uses for more than 40 inspection types and handled over 800 video inspections last year; Wagner said remote inspections typically take 5 to 15 minutes, expand inspection capacity and can yield similar compliance results to field inspections.

Opponents including trades organizations raised concerns about program design, jurisdictional oversight, workers' protections and the potential for outsourcing or automation that could degrade safety. Committee members pressed the author on protections: inspectors should retain discretion to require on-site inspections when necessary, and jurisdictions should avoid outsourcing inspections out of state.

The committee moved AB 17 38 as amended to the next committee with members directing continued conversations with labor and special districts to refine program requirements and preserve inspector oversight.