The proposed bill, HB2721, requires municipalities with populations of 75,000 or more to allow the development of duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and townhomes on all lots zoned for single-family residential use within one mile of the central business district, as well as on at least 20% of new developments exceeding 10 contiguous acres. It restricts municipalities from imposing regulations that could hinder the development of these middle housing types, such as limiting the number of floors or requiring more than one off-street parking space per unit. If municipalities do not comply by the specified deadline, middle housing must be permitted without restrictions on single-family residential lots.

This bill contrasts with current law, which grants municipalities broad authority to regulate zoning ordinances. The new legislation specifically mandates the inclusion of middle housing in zoning regulations and limits municipalities' ability to impose restrictive measures. It also provides exemptions for areas lacking urban services and those near public or military airports, while clarifying definitions related to housing types and building codes to ensure consistency with existing laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-462.10
House Engrossed Version: 9-462.10
Senate Engrossed Version: 9-462.10
Chaptered Version: 9-462.10