Substitute House Bill No. 5391 seeks to strengthen the enforcement of zoning regulations for municipalities operating under special acts by aligning their enforcement capabilities with those governed by state statutes. The bill repeals and replaces Section 8-12 of the general statutes, allowing local zoning authorities to pursue various legal remedies, including injunctions and civil penalties of up to $2,500 for violations. Importantly, the bill clarifies that enforcement can proceed without regard to conflicting bylaws, ordinances, rules, or regulations, thereby simplifying the enforcement process.

In addition to these changes, the bill introduces provisions for issuing cease-and-desist orders related to land grading and soil erosion violations, with penalties for non-compliance ranging from $10 to $250 per day, and potential imprisonment for willful offenses. Municipalities can also seek injunctive relief if individuals fail to comply with written orders or cease-and-desist orders. The bill allows for fines of up to $150 per day for zoning violations, contingent upon the existence of a local citation hearing procedure. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, and is anticipated to enhance revenue for municipalities through more effective enforcement of zoning regulations.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 8-12
PD Joint Favorable Substitute: 8-12
File No. 261: 8-12