This bill clarifies the authority of municipalities to enforce local health ordinances concerning septic systems and maintenance in relation to accessory dwelling units (ADUs). It amends RSA 674:72, I to state that while municipalities must allow one ADU as a matter of right in all zoning districts that permit single-family dwellings, they retain the right to adopt and enforce health ordinances related to subsurface sanitary disposal systems. The new language specifies that municipalities are not required to impose stricter septic system requirements than those mandated by the Department of Environmental Services.

Additionally, the bill introduces a tiered licensing system for barbershops and salons that wish to serve alcoholic beverages. It amends RSA 178:21, III to create two types of licenses: a tier 1 license, which allows for the complimentary serving of one drink per customer, 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, and it includes provisions to ensure that individuals under 21 are not offered or allowed to consume alcohol in these establishments. 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