The bill introduces several provisions aimed at improving housing accessibility and affordability in Florida. It establishes a new section, 83.471, which allows landlords to accept reusable tenant screening reports, mandates that these reports include specific information about the applicant, and prohibits landlords from charging fees for their use. Additionally, the bill amends section 163.31771 to require local governments to adopt ordinances permitting accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in single-family residential zones by December 1, 2025, while also specifying that such ordinances cannot impose certain restrictions, such as requiring the owner to reside in the primary dwelling. It also clarifies that ADUs providing affordable rental housing will count towards local comprehensive plans and ensures that property owners are not denied homestead exemptions solely based on the presence of an ADU.

Further amendments include provisions for local governments to offer density bonus incentives for landowners donating property for affordable housing, particularly for military families. The bill also mandates an evaluation by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability on the use of mezzanine finance and tiny homes for affordable housing solutions, with a report due by December 31, 2026. Lastly, it clarifies that certain conversions of single-family or two-family dwellings into specific residences do not constitute a change in occupancy under the Florida Building Code or require reclassification under the Florida Fire Prevention Code. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 247 Filed: 163.31771, 420.615
H 247 c1: 420.615
H 247 c2: 420.615
H 247 c3: 420.615, 553.80, 633.208