The Legislature finds and declares that there is a statewide need to ensure clear understanding of the specific requirements which must be met in connection with the approval of development projects and to expedite decisions on such projects. Consequently, the provisions of this chapter shall be applicable to all public agencies, including charter cities.

The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to the following:

During a year declared by the State Water Resources Control Board or the Department of Water Resources to be a critically dry year, or during a drought emergency declared by the Governor pursuant to Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 8550) of Division 1 of Title 2, the time limits established by this chapter shall not apply to applications to appropriate water pursuant to Part 2 (commencing with Section 1200) of Division 2 of, to petitions for change pursuant to Chapter 10 (commencing with Section 1700) of Part 2 of Division 2 of, or to petitions for certification pursuant to Section 13160 of, the Water Code for projects involving the diversion or use of water.

Any state agency which is the lead agency for a development project shall inform the applicant for a permit that the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development has been created to assist, and provide information to, developers relating to the permit approval process.