Bill > HB1500

This bill creates new provisions for nonconforming structures (buildings that were legally constructed but no longer fully comply with current zoning regulations) in North Dakota's counties, cities, and townships. The legislation allows residential nonconforming structures to be repaired, replaced, or rebuilt even if they are damaged beyond 50% of their value, subject to specific conditions. These conditions include submitting a building permit application within six months of damage, beginning restoration within one year, and ensuring the new structure meets several requirements: it cannot occupy a different portion of the lot, cannot exceed the original structure's square footage, height, or stories, must maintain the same number of parking spaces, comply with building and fire codes, not pose public health risks, and not encroach on public rights of way or neighboring properties. The bill also stipulates that expansion of nonconforming structures is prohibited unless it complies with existing zoning ordinances, and structures cannot be moved unless the relocation brings them into compliance with zoning rules. Additionally, the bill preserves local zoning authorities' ability to create less restrictive regulations and maintains special considerations for structures in floodplain areas to ensure compliance with national flood insurance program requirements.