The General Assembly Raised Bill No. 151 aims to prohibit local jurisdictions from implementing certain land use and zoning limitations that could hinder housing development. Key provisions of the bill include the prohibition of zoning regulations that would restrict the operation of family child care homes in residential zones, impose unreasonable conditions on manufactured homes, or establish excessive minimum lot sizes and setback requirements for single-family dwellings and townhouses. Additionally, the bill seeks to prevent municipalities from placing caps on multifamily housing units and from denying land use applications based on the characteristics or income levels of applicants.

The bill also introduces new legal language that specifically outlines the limitations on zoning regulations, such as prohibiting the establishment of minimum lot sizes greater than 5,000 square feet for single-family homes in areas connected to public water and sewer systems, and preventing the prohibition of townhouses in single-family residential zones. Furthermore, it clarifies that certain properties, such as those listed on the National Register of Historic Places or agricultural land with acquired development rights, are exempt from these provisions. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, and aims to enhance housing availability and affordability by reducing restrictive zoning practices.