This bill amends existing laws regarding municipal health ordinances and the licensing of barbershops and salons. It clarifies that municipalities retain the authority to enforce local health ordinances related to septic systems and maintenance when regulating accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Specifically, it states that municipalities must allow one ADU as a matter of right in all zoning districts that permit single-family dwellings, without imposing additional requirements beyond those applicable to single-family homes. The new language inserted into RSA 674:72 emphasizes that municipalities can adopt and enforce health ordinances related to subsurface sanitary disposal systems, ensuring their safety and adequacy.

Additionally, the bill introduces a tiered licensing system for barbershops and salons that serve alcoholic beverages. It creates two types of on-premises licenses: a tier 1 license, which allows for the free serving of one drink per customer during services, and a tier 2 license, which permits the sale of alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption. The tier 1 license has a fee of $100, while the tier 2 license costs $480. The bill also mandates that the liquor commission submit an annual report detailing the number of licenses issued and violations. The effective date for the ADU provisions is set for July 1, 2026, while the rest of the act will take effect 60 days after passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 674:72, 674:73
As Amended by the House: 674:72
As Amended by the Senate: 674:72, 178:21
HB1540 text: 674:72, 674:73