This law says that if a local area law requires security for a building permit, the person applying can provide security in one of several ways. They can deposit money or approved bonds with the local agency or a trustworthy escrow agent. They can also use an instrument or letter of credit from a regulated financial institution, ensuring the funds are available. Alternatively, they can give a bond from a certified surety company or use any other form of security that the local agency accepts through its rules.

This law states that any security (like a bond or deposit) given to ensure that someone completes a job or agreement should be returned right away once the work is fully and satisfactorily completed. Additionally, a legislative body might set up rules to allow parts of the security to be returned as sections of the work are completed and accepted.

This law allows local agencies, like city or county building departments, to temporarily hire private companies or individuals to check building plans if they experience excessive delays. If no qualified private entities are available, they aren't required to hire anyone. Local agencies can charge applicants fees to cover these costs. An excessive delay means more than 50 days for the initial plan check or over 60 days for checking corrected plans. This only applies to nonresidential construction or remodels of buildings, except hotels or motels, that are up to three stories high.