S.B. No. 844 introduces amendments to the Local Government Code regarding the procedures for changes to zoning regulations and district boundaries. A new definition for "proposed comprehensive zoning change" is added, which includes municipal proposals that allow for increased residential development, the adoption of a new zoning code or map, or the establishment of a zoning overlay district. Additionally, the bill mandates that municipalities must provide notice of public hearings regarding zoning changes in both an official newspaper and, if applicable, on their website.

The bill also establishes specific protest procedures for proposed changes that are not classified as comprehensive zoning changes, requiring written protests from property owners representing a certain percentage of the affected area. If a protest is filed, the proposed change must receive a supermajority or majority vote from the governing body, depending on the nature of the protest. Furthermore, a new section presumes the validity of zoning changes that increase residential development if no action to annul the change is taken within 60 days. The bill repeals certain existing provisions and specifies that the changes will apply to proposals made on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 211.006 (Local Government Code 211)
Senate Committee Report: Local Government Code 211.006 (Local Government Code 211)
Engrossed: Local Government Code 211.006 (Local Government Code 211)
House Committee Report: Local Government Code 211.006 (Local Government Code 211)