The proposed bill, HB2815, amends existing Arizona zoning laws to allow religious institutions to develop housing as a "use-by-right" without requiring discretionary reviews or permits from local governments. This means that municipalities and counties cannot impose conditional use permits, planned unit development permits, or rezoning applications for these developments. The bill outlines specific density provisions, allowing up to 20 units per acre in residential zones and 30 units per acre in non-residential zones, with height restrictions set at one story above current zoning regulations. Additionally, it limits ancillary uses in single-family residential zones and permits commercial uses outside of these zones.

The bill also mandates that a certain percentage of the housing developed must be allocated for moderate and low-income households, with a requirement for a deed restriction to ensure at least 40% of the units are designated for low-income households for 55 years. Local governments are restricted from imposing additional requirements such as setbacks or increased fees based solely on the development's use-by-right status. Furthermore, the bill specifies that these developments can only occur on land owned by the religious institution as of 2023 and requires notification to the county assessor if the property is no longer used for tax-exempt purposes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-462.10, 11-820.04, 42-11152
House Engrossed Version: 9-462.10, 11-820.04, 42-11152