Bill > HB1779

This bill establishes comprehensive statewide regulations for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), which are independent residential housing units located on the same lot as a primary dwelling. The bill prohibits local governments from implementing overly restrictive regulations on ADUs, including banning their construction, imposing excessive parking requirements, mandating owner occupancy, or limiting their size to less than 800 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling's square footage. Political subdivisions are still allowed to apply general zoning requirements, building codes, and design standards, and can authorize ADUs in specific circumstances like historic preservation areas. The bill mandates that permit applications for ADUs must be processed ministerially within 60 days, with approval automatic if not acted upon in that timeframe. Importantly, the bill includes an enforcement mechanism where the Texas Attorney General can prevent a political subdivision that violates these ADU regulations from adopting a tax rate higher than its no-new-revenue tax rate. The legislation aims to streamline ADU construction and provide more housing flexibility by limiting local regulatory barriers, while still preserving some local control over design and implementation.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1779