SB676 streamlines judicial review for wildfire recovery projects in California.

SB676 amends the California Environmental Quality Act to expedite judicial review for projects aimed at maintaining, repairing, restoring, demolishing, or replacing property damaged by wildfires in areas declared under a state of emergency. Effective January 1, 2027, the bill mandates that such projects, consistent with zoning and land use ordinances, must resolve any legal challenges within 270 days. The Judicial Council is directed to adopt rules to implement these expedited proceedings, and applicants must agree to cover the associated court costs.

SB676 streamlines judicial review for wildfire recovery projects in California.

SB676 amends the California Environmental Quality Act to expedite judicial review for projects aimed at maintaining, repairing, restoring, demolishing, or replacing property damaged by wildfires in areas declared under a state of emergency. Effective January 1, 2027, the bill mandates that such projects, consistent with zoning and land use ordinances, must resolve any legal challenges within 270 days. The Judicial Council is directed to adopt rules to implement these expedited proceedings, and applicants must agree to cover the associated court costs.