The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding municipal zoning by requiring municipalities with populations of 75,000 or more to authorize the development of middle housing types, such as duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and townhomes, as permitted uses in their development regulations. This change is aimed at promoting the construction of middle housing and preventing municipalities from imposing regulations that would discourage such developments. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that allow for the development of middle housing in designated historic areas, provided that the designs are compatible with the historic character of the surroundings.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that municipalities may require compliance with historic preservation or design standards for middle housing developed in historic areas, but cannot impose public hearings or other discretionary approval processes for these developments. It also establishes that middle housing cannot be built on sites where a structure listed on the national register of historic places was demolished, unless the demolition was necessary for public health and safety reasons, certified by a licensed professional. Overall, these updates aim to facilitate the development of middle housing while balancing the preservation of historic areas.

Statutes affected:
House Engrossed Version: 9-462.13