The bill introduces new provisions regarding tenant screening and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Florida. It establishes Section 83.471, which allows landlords to accept reusable tenant screening reports while prohibiting them from charging fees to applicants who provide such reports. The bill also defines key terms related to tenant screening and outlines the requirements for these reports, including the necessity for them to be prepared within the last 30 days and made available to landlords at no cost. Additionally, it amends Section 163.31771 to require local governments to adopt ordinances permitting ADUs in single-family residential zones by December 1, 2025, rather than allowing them the option to do so. The new ordinances must apply prospectively and cannot impose certain restrictions, such as prohibiting rentals for less than one month or increasing parking requirements unnecessarily.

Furthermore, the bill includes provisions that prevent the denial of homestead exemptions based solely on the presence of an ADU and mandates that rented ADUs be assessed and taxed separately from the primary homestead property. It also amends Section 420.615 to allow local governments to offer density bonus incentives for landowners donating property for affordable housing, specifically for military families. Lastly, the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability is tasked with evaluating the use of mezzanine finance and the potential of tiny homes in addressing affordable housing needs, with a report due by December 31, 2026. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 184 Filed: 163.31771, 420.615
S 184 c1: 420.615
S 184 c2: 420.615
S 184 c3: 420.615
S 184 e1: 420.615