S.B. No. 2477 introduces new regulations for converting certain office buildings to mixed-use and multifamily residential occupancy in municipalities with populations over 150,000, specifically in counties with populations exceeding 300,000. The bill establishes Chapter 218 in the Local Government Code, defining key terms such as "heavy industrial use," "mixed-use residential," and "multifamily residential." It applies to office buildings that are at least five years old and sets requirements for the percentage of residential use in proposed conversions.

Additionally, the bill prohibits municipalities from imposing certain regulations and fees during the conversion process, including traffic impact analyses and additional parking requirements, and mandates that municipal authorities must approve permits administratively if the proposed conversion meets the regulations. It also amends existing provisions regarding impact fees, ensuring they cannot be imposed on converted properties unless specific conditions are met. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, contingent upon related legislation. The bill has received strong bipartisan support, passing both the Senate and House with significant majorities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 395.011 (Local Government Code 395)
Senate Committee Report: Local Government Code 395.011 (Local Government Code 395)
Engrossed: Local Government Code 395.011 (Local Government Code 395)
House Committee Report: Local Government Code 395.011 (Local Government Code 395)
Enrolled: Local Government Code 395.011 (Local Government Code 395)