The Minnesota Starter Home Act aims to limit the zoning authority of municipalities regarding certain residential developments, thereby facilitating the construction of starter homes and new housing options. The bill introduces definitions for various housing types, including accessory dwelling units, duplexes, and townhouses, and establishes that these housing types must be permitted in any zoning district that allows residential use. It also outlines specific requirements for municipalities, such as allowing at least two residential units on single-family lots and setting minimum lot sizes for duplexes and townhouses connected to municipal water and sewer.

Additionally, the bill imposes restrictions on municipalities to ensure that they do not impose more stringent standards or requirements on these residential developments than those applicable to single-family homes as of January 1, 2025. It prohibits municipalities from requiring a minimum number of parking spaces, mandating homeowners associations, or imposing excessive setbacks and lot coverage requirements. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and municipalities are barred from enacting interim ordinances that would delay its application.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 462.355