Senate Bill No. 673 aims to regulate accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by prohibiting political subdivisions from imposing certain restrictions on their construction and use. The bill introduces Chapter 249 to the Local Government Code, defining an accessory dwelling unit as a residential unit that is independent and located on a lot not zoned for single-family homes or duplexes. It explicitly prohibits political subdivisions from enacting measures that would prevent the construction of ADUs, impose excessive parking requirements, or limit their size and design. Additionally, the bill allows for the construction of ADUs without requiring owner occupancy of the primary dwelling and mandates that permit applications for ADUs be processed ministerially within a specified timeframe.

The legislation also clarifies that while political subdivisions can enforce general zoning requirements applicable to residential construction, they cannot impose regulations that contradict the provisions outlined in this chapter. Furthermore, it allows property owners to take legal action against political subdivisions that violate these regulations, with the possibility of recovering attorney's fees. The bill does not override existing historic preservation rules or homeowners association regulations that may restrict ADUs. If passed, the act would take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

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