Land Use Regulations

HB 217 prohibits counties and municipalities in areas declared disaster zones for Hurricanes Debby, Helene, or Milton (DR-4806, DR-4828, DR-4834) from imposing new construction moratoriums, stricter land use rules, or more burdensome permitting processes for properties damaged by those hurricanes. It applies retroactively to August 1, 2024, and bans such restrictions until October 1, 2027. Private property owners can sue local governments for violations and seek court orders to block the rules, with potential recovery of legal fees if successful. The law expires June 30, 2028.