This bill amends existing laws concerning land development, building and fire code appeals, and the recording of subdivision plats and site plans. It extends the exemption period for subdivision plats from 5 to 10 years, meaning approved plats are not subject to subsequent changes in regulations for a longer duration. It also increases the time for active and substantial development to begin from 2 to 5 years post-approval. The bill limits the local building code board of appeals to hearing decisions made under local code amendments, with other appeals going to the building code review board. Appeals against the fire marshal and local building code board can be taken to the superior court or the housing appeals board. The town of Hampton is given the authority to discontinue a highway for leasing purposes, and registers of deeds are prohibited from refusing to record a plat due to noncompliance with post-approval regulations.

The bill also revises the Housing Appeals Board's authority, allowing appeals by applicants or aggrieved parties with legal standing, and requires the municipality to be a party to the action. Appeals against the state fire marshal and local building code board decisions must first go to the building code review board, with subsequent appeals possible to either the superior court or the housing appeals board. The town of Hampton's select board is empowered to discontinue and lease a portion of D Street for up to 99 years, with this provision set to be repealed on March 10, 2025. The act's sections have varying effective dates, with Sections 1-5 effective from July 1, 2024, Section 8 on March 10, 2025, and the rest upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 155-A:4, 153:5, 478:1-a
As Amended by the House: 674:39, 674:34, 155-A:11-b, 478:1-a
As Amended by the Senate: 674:39, 674:34, 155-A:11-b, 478:1-a, 679:5