This bill introduces a new section to RSA 674, titled "Extraordinary Restrictions of Residential Property," which limits local authorities' ability to impose extraordinary restrictions on residential properties. Under this new provision, local legislative bodies can only adopt such restrictions if they are narrowly tailored to serve a compelling government interest in public health or safety. The bill specifies that evidence such as written findings, scientific studies, or other empirical data may be relevant in determining whether a restriction meets this standard, but they are not necessarily conclusive. The bill defines "extraordinary restrictions" to include various requirements, such as minimum square footage, lot size, road frontage, and prohibitions on residential use in commercial zones, among others.

Additionally, the bill mandates that any extraordinary restriction of residential property cannot be enforced unless it complies with the outlined requirements. The effective date for this act is set for 180 days after passage. The fiscal note indicates that the bill may lead to increased municipal expenditures as local governments may need to hire staff or consultants to gather and review the necessary empirical evidence for any proposed restrictions. However, the overall fiscal impact on local revenues and expenditures remains indeterminable.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 674:33