Bill > H1183

This bill, titled the "Transit-Oriented Development Act" or "TOD Act," aims to address housing shortages and traffic congestion in Florida by requiring counties, municipalities, and special districts to establish specific zones for transit-oriented development (TOD) and rural livable urban village (LUV) areas by December 1, 2026. These zones, defined by proximity to public transit stops (TOD zones) or as areas in rural county seats or largest municipalities zoned for commercial, industrial, or mixed-use development (rural LUV areas), must allow for mixed-use zoning, meaning residential, commercial, and industrial uses are permitted. The bill prohibits local governments from imposing overly restrictive building regulations within these zones, such as strict height limits, minimum setbacks, or excessive open space requirements, especially in Tier 1 TOD zones (within a quarter-mile of a transit stop) and Tier 2 TOD zones (between a quarter and half-mile). It also prevents the reduction or elimination of established TOD zones and includes provisions for lots containing historic property, with exceptions for structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Furthermore, the bill grants real property owners and housing organizations (defined as groups involved in housing construction, advocacy, or policy research) the right to sue local governments that violate these regulations, with prevailing plaintiffs entitled to attorney fees and costs, and waives sovereign immunity for local governments in such cases. Finally, it encourages public transit providers and government agencies to develop land within TOD zones, with net proceeds from such development to be used for transit operations, maintenance, and improvements.

Government Affairs

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/1183