This bill proposes several updates to current statutes regarding the development of middle housing in Arizona, particularly in historic areas. Under the new provisions, municipalities with populations of 75,000 or more would be required to authorize the development of duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and townhomes as permitted uses in areas designated as districts of historical significance or listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The bill also stipulates that middle housing must be designed to be compatible with the historic character of the surrounding area and allows municipalities to impose specific design standards.

Additionally, the bill prohibits municipalities from requiring public hearings or discretionary approvals for middle housing developments in historic areas, streamlining the approval process. It also establishes that middle housing cannot be developed on sites where historic structures have been demolished unless the demolition was necessary for public safety. The bill includes an emergency clause, making it effective immediately upon passage, and incorporates technical changes to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-462.13
House Engrossed Version: 9-462.13