The bill, HB 1588-FN, amends existing laws to enhance local legislative authority concerning accessory parking and multifamily housing development. It allows local legislative bodies to regulate accessory parking without requiring that parking spaces be garaged, specifying that only one residential parking space per unit is necessary. Additionally, municipalities can impose limited requirements for multifamily housing in commercial districts existing as of July 1, 2026, ensuring these requirements do not exceed those for commercial development. The bill clarifies that municipalities can enforce site plan reviews for multifamily units and permits the conversion of pre-existing nonconforming structures into multifamily units without altering their zoning compliance.

Moreover, the bill establishes special assessment districts to finance public infrastructure improvements necessary for new developments through agreements with property owners. It details eligible infrastructure improvements, such as roads and utility extensions, and specifies that costs will be apportioned based on the benefits received by properties. Municipalities are authorized to issue bonds for these improvements, with assessments collected over a maximum of 20 years. The bill also expands the housing infrastructure municipal grant program to include funding for necessary upgrades related to new housing units. It appropriates $1 to the Department of Business and Economic Affairs for grants aimed at upgrading sewer, water, and road infrastructure for new housing units. Additionally, it amends RSA 674:80, V, to clarify that municipalities can require site plan reviews and impose specific requirements for multifamily units in commercial districts, while allowing for the conversion of nonconforming structures and providing for reimbursement of attorney's fees for property owners improperly denied applications.

Statutes affected:
As Amended by the Senate: 674:16, 674:80
Version adopted by both bodies: 674:16, 674:80
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 674:16, 674:80