Housing (Zoning)

HB 378 proposes to remove state-level prohibitions that currently restrict local governments from requiring certain contributions for housing development. The bill would repeal existing laws preventing cities, towns, and counties from mandating fees or land dedications from developers for the purpose of providing housing for specified income levels or sale prices. If enacted, this would allow local governments to include such requirements in their zoning regulations and conditions for approving new additions or developments. This change would directly affect local government planning capabilities and property owners or developers undertaking new projects.

SB 252 revises land use laws concerning manufactured and factory-built housing. The bill requires municipal and county zoning regulations to treat these housing types the same as other residential units, preventing differential treatment. It also establishes a rebuttable presumption that placing manufactured or factory-built homes in residential zones will not adversely affect conventional property values. Additionally, the bill includes manufactured housing as an allowable commercial purpose in state trust land leases and provides relevant definitions.

SB 243 amends state zoning laws to allow for increased housing density and building height in certain municipalities. In urban areas with populations over 5,000, it requires cities to permit multiple-unit dwellings and mixed-use developments in commercial zones, provided they have municipal water and sewer. For these developments, the bill limits parking requirements to no more than one space per unit and prohibits height restrictions below 60 feet in specific commercial and industrial zones. Furthermore, it mandates that cities with at least 5,000 residents allow duplex housing in areas zoned for single-family residences, with similar zoning regulations.

SB 532 revises county zoning laws to require counties with zoning regulations to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on lots with existing single-family homes. It mandates that counties permit at least one ADU "by right," meaning without requiring special permits or public hearings, and sets size limits for detached or attached units. The bill prohibits counties from imposing certain restrictions on ADUs, such as requiring additional parking, owner occupancy, or specific exterior designs. Counties may charge a one-time application fee for reviewing ADU applications and must comply with expedited sanitation review provisions.