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 under specified conditions, ensuring compliance with public health and safety standards while also allowing for local controls that promote mixed-use developments in certain cases.

Additionally, the bill outlines required standards for municipalities, including height limitations, floor area ratios, and restrictions on imposing more stringent requirements than those applicable to commercial buildings. It mandates an administrative approval process for development requests, ensuring timely responses and limiting the need for additional permits unless necessary for health or safety concerns. The bill also introduces an affordable housing density bonus, allowing developments to exceed certain zoning standards, and prohibits municipalities from enacting interim ordinances that would conflict with the provisions of this section. The new regulations are set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 462.355