Bill > HF2018

This bill establishes new statewide regulations for multifamily and mixed-use residential developments in Minnesota municipalities, with the primary goal of streamlining housing development approvals and reducing local barriers. The bill defines key terms like "affordable housing development" (residential units restricted to lower-income households) and "multifamily residential development" (buildings with at least 13 units), and mandates that such developments be a permitted use in most commercial zoning districts. Municipalities must approve these developments through a standardized administrative process, cannot impose overly restrictive parking requirements or height limitations, and must allow a floor area ratio of at least 2.5. The bill specifically requires municipalities to establish a 60-day review period for development requests, with automatic approval if not denied within that timeframe. Additionally, the legislation provides density bonuses for affordable and workforce housing developments, allowing them to exceed typical zoning dimensional standards by increasing building height, floor area, or total units. Municipalities are prohibited from using local ordinances to effectively block these housing developments, and the provisions will become effective on January 1, 2026, giving local governments time to adjust their zoning regulations to comply with the new state requirements.

Government Affairs, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2018&ssn=0&y=2025