This bill aims to limit the zoning authority of municipalities in Minnesota regarding multifamily and mixed-use developments, proposing new legal language to be added to Minnesota Statutes, chapter 462. It defines key terms such as "affordable housing development," "multifamily residential development," and "minimum parking mandate," and establishes that multifamily residential developments must be permitted in any zoning district that allows commercial uses, with certain exceptions. Municipalities are required to approve these developments following specific standards and limitations, including height restrictions and setback requirements, while ensuring that public health and safety are prioritized.

Additionally, the bill mandates that municipalities cannot impose more restrictive standards on affordable housing developments compared to market-rate multifamily developments. It introduces an administrative approval process for development requests, ensuring timely responses from municipalities and limiting the conditions under which they can deny requests. The bill also includes provisions for density bonuses for affordable housing developments, allowing them to exceed certain zoning standards. Importantly, municipalities are prohibited from enacting interim ordinances that would conflict with the policies outlined in this section, with the new regulations set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 462.355