The Florida Starter Homes Act is designed to improve the affordability of home ownership, renting, and leasing in Florida by increasing the housing supply. It amends sections 125.022 and 166.033 of the Florida Statutes, establishing that local governments cannot impose regulations on residential lots unless they serve a compelling governmental interest and are the least restrictive means to achieve that interest. The bill also prohibits local governments from enforcing certain regulations, such as minimum lot sizes and parking space requirements, if a residential lot is connected to public water and sewer systems. Additionally, it introduces a new section, 163.3254, which outlines definitions and legislative findings related to the housing shortage, emphasizing the need for flexibility in residential development and allowing for the approval of development applications by right under specific conditions.

Moreover, the bill streamlines the approval process for residential lot splits and off-site constructed dwellings, ensuring that local governments establish a review process for lot splits and process applications within specified timeframes. If deadlines are not met, applications are automatically deemed approved, and applicants are entitled to a refund of their application fees. The legislation mandates that off-site constructed residential dwellings be treated equally to site-built homes in zoning regulations, while still allowing local governments to enforce general architectural and design standards uniformly. It also provides legal recourse for property owners and housing organizations affected by local regulations that violate these new standards, ensuring they can seek damages and attorney fees. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 948 Filed: 125.022, 166.033, 177.071
S 948 c1: 553.382