H.B. No. 5148 introduces new regulations regarding stairway requirements in certain multifamily residential buildings within municipalities that have a professional fire department. The bill adds a new subchapter to Chapter 211 of the Local Government Code, defining "multifamily residential building" and outlining specific conditions under which a municipality cannot require more than one stairway. These conditions include limitations on the number of stories, the number of dwelling units per floor, and various safety features such as automatic sprinkler systems, fire-resistance ratings, and emergency escape openings.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that municipalities retain the authority to adopt regulations for multifamily buildings that do not meet the specified requirements for a single stairway. It also ensures that property owners' associations can continue to enforce their own rules and deed restrictions, and confirms that existing zoning requirements will still apply to these buildings. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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