Bill > H765

This bill introduces comprehensive reforms to local government development regulations in North Carolina, focusing on streamlining development processes, increasing housing density, and providing more transparent and predictable procedures for developers and local governments. The key provisions include requiring cities with populations over 125,000 to allow higher residential densities (at least six dwelling units per acre), mandating the acceptance of tiny houses and accessory dwelling units in residential zones, establishing clearer timelines for development approvals, and creating a new statewide framework for water and sewer capacity allocation. The bill also introduces more stringent standards for local governments' decision-making processes, requiring that regulations be based on "actual and legitimate needs of the community" rather than arbitrary preferences, and provides enhanced legal remedies for developers who face unreasonable regulatory obstacles. Notably, the bill includes provisions that limit local governments' ability to impose design restrictions on residential structures, requires more transparent reporting on development and infrastructure capacities, and establishes a more standardized approach to water and sewer service allocations. The legislation is designed to address housing availability, reduce bureaucratic barriers to development, and ensure more consistent and fair local government practices across North Carolina.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H765