religious institutions; development; allowed use
What changed between versions
Ownership requirements were tightened to require exclusive ownership by a religious institution for at least 15 consecutive years (increased from 3 years) as of January 1, 2025, with proof of continuous religious worship and tax-exempt status.
The definition of an 'eligible site' was changed to require a minimum of three acres of contiguous land owned by a religious institution.
Height limits were reduced from a maximum of 38 feet and three floors to a strict cap of 30 feet and two full floors.
Setback requirements were standardized and increased, mandating at least 20 feet for front setbacks, 15 feet for side setbacks, and 20 feet for rear setbacks, replacing previous flexible options.
New mandatory requirements include a valid land trust agreement and a ground lease agreement that specifies governance, affordability, resale equity sharing, and limited appreciation clauses.
A new community notification process was added, requiring religious institutions to notify neighbors within a half-mile radius and hold a public meeting before development.
Affordability criteria were updated to require that single-family homes be sold to households earning no more than 120% of the area median income.
New exemptions were added to exclude developments near airports, on industrial land, or in designated historic districts from the bill's protections.
