The proposed bill aims to significantly reform zoning regulations in New Mexico by eliminating restrictions on building height and the number of stories, thereby allowing for greater flexibility in construction. It permits residential apartments in commercial zones and allows small-scale commercial uses in residential areas, as well as duplexes and townhouses in residential zones and mixed-use lots. Additionally, the bill mandates that zoning authorities accommodate one additional dwelling unit within each lot in single-family zoning districts and prohibits minimum parking mandates, with an exception for accessible parking. The appeal process for zoning decisions is also revised to streamline the process and enhance administrative efficiency.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions that require applications for uses not permitted by right in zoning ordinances to be decided by a designated hearing officer, while applications for zoning compliance will be reviewed administratively by local jurisdiction staff. It repeals an existing section of the law and establishes that the new regulations will apply to decisions and enforcement actions initiated after June 30, 2026. Overall, the bill seeks to promote more diverse housing options and commercial activities while reducing bureaucratic hurdles in zoning processes.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 3-21-1, 3-21-8, 3-21-9