The bill amends the Local Government Code to establish new procedures for protests against proposed changes to zoning regulations or district boundaries. It introduces Section 211.0061, which specifies that a protest must be written and signed by owners of at least 60 percent of the affected land area or adjoining properties. If such a protest is filed, the proposed change requires a three-fourths majority vote from the governing body for changes affecting the area of the lots or a simple majority for changes initiated by a municipality that make residential development more restrictive. Additionally, the bill transfers and redesignates existing language regarding the computation of land area for protests.

Further amendments include the addition of several new sections that outline notice requirements for other proposed changes, civil actions to compel municipalities to adopt changes, and a presumption of validity for less restrictive changes if no action is taken within 60 days. The bill also allows for complaints to be submitted to the attorney general regarding violations of the new provisions, with penalties for municipalities that do not comply. Notably, it repeals Section 211.006(d) and clarifies that the new provisions do not affect existing historic preservation rules or homeowners association regulations. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 211.006 (Local Government Code 211)