Bill > HB457

This bill restricts local governments (cities, towns, village districts, and counties with unincorporated towns) from creating or enforcing zoning ordinances that limit dwelling unit occupancy in two key ways: first, they cannot restrict occupancy to fewer than 2 people per bedroom, and second, they cannot base occupancy restrictions on the occupants' relationships, marital status, occupation, employment status, or educational status (including details like college enrollment or academic achievement). The legislation specifically protects various living arrangements, such as group housing for students or non-traditional household compositions, by preventing local governments from discriminating against different types of household arrangements. The bill amends existing zoning law (RSA 674:16) by adding a new paragraph that explicitly prohibits such restrictive ordinances, while still maintaining the ability to enforce state building and fire codes. The new law will take effect 60 days after its passage, giving local governments time to adjust their existing ordinances to comply with the new requirements.

Business and Industry, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=876&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB457