House Bill 5272 (sHB5272 File No. 638) amends existing laws to enhance the enforcement of municipal zoning regulations and to modify the New Home Construction Guaranty Fund. The bill grants Zoning Enforcement Officers (ZEOs) the authority to take action against businesses that have suspended required work on site plans, subdivisions, or inland wetlands approvals, especially if such suspension results in public health or safety hazards or verified property damage. It also allows municipalities to establish penalties for zoning regulation violations through local ordinances, with fines up to $150 per day for continued violations. The bill defines "business" and "incomplete work," and sets forth the conditions under which enforcement actions can be initiated. The effective dates for these provisions are October 1, 2024, for most parts, and July 1, 2024, for site plan approvals.

The bill also revises the New Home Construction Guaranty Fund by increasing the maximum payout to consumers from $30,000 to $50,000 for judgments against new home construction contractors or proprietors. It outlines the application process for consumers to claim funds, including a two-year deadline from the final judgment or order, and makes contractors and proprietors liable for the amounts paid out from the fund. The bill redefines "proprietor" and sets conditions for the revocation and renewal of certificates for contractors with claims against them. House Amendment "A" removes certain provisions from the original bill and adds the ZEO enforcement actions and the definition of "proprietor." The guaranty fund provisions are effective upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 8-3c, 8-3k
PD Joint Favorable Substitute: 8-3c, 8-3k, 20-417a
File No. 440: 8-3c, 8-3k, 20-417a
APP Joint Favorable: 8-3c, 8-3k, 20-417a
File No. 638: 8-12, 8-12a, 20-417a, 20-417i