The proposed bill would significantly amend current statutes regarding the development of religious institutions on residentially zoned land in Arizona. Under the new provisions, any single-family residential housing development on eligible sites owned by religious institutions, which have been used primarily for worship for at least fifteen years, would be considered an allowed use development, regardless of local zoning ordinances. The bill specifies requirements for proximity to neighboring sites, parking, water and sewer access, and restrictions on location relative to heavy industrial use, airports, and military bases. It also establishes height, setback, lot coverage, and density bonus regulations, while prohibiting municipalities and counties from imposing additional restrictions beyond those specified in the bill. Additionally, the bill introduces requirements for land trust and ground lease agreements to ensure long-term affordability and community benefits, as well as provisions for notifying nearby neighborhoods about proposed developments. It clarifies definitions for terms such as "eligible site," "ground lease," and "religious institution." Certain lands, including those near airports or designated as historic, are explicitly excluded from these provisions. Overall, if enacted, this legislation would create a more streamlined process for religious institutions to develop housing while maintaining certain regulatory standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-462.14, 11-820.05, 42-11152
House Engrossed Version: 9-462.14, 11-820.05, 42-11109, 42-11152, 28-8486, 9-462.01