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VA SB181

VA SB181
Real property tax; partial exemption for repurposing underutilized structures for residential use.


summary

Introduced
01/09/2026
In Committee
02/25/2026
Crossed Over
03/04/2026
Passed
03/10/2026
Dead

Introduced Session

2026 Regular Regular Session

Bill Summary

Real property tax; partial exemption for repurposing underutilized structures for residential use; local incentives. Permits localities to provide partial real estate taxation exemptions for converted real property where such conversion establishes a residential structure that has set aside at least 30 percent of the structure for households with a per capita income at or below 80 percent of the locality's median income or where the building owner is subject to an agreement with the Commonwealth or the locality regarding the provision of affordable housing. Localities have discretion to determine (i) whether a converted building qualifies for the partial exemption, (ii) any additional restrictions and conditions, (iii) whether the exemption is the amount equal to the increase in assessed value or a percentage of such increase resulting from the repurposing of the structure, and (iv) the length of time the exemption will run with the land, not to exceed 15 years. The local governing body or its designee shall provide written notification of the partial exemption to the property owner. The bill also permits localities to grant tax incentives or provide regulatory flexibility to qualifying converted real property.

AI Summary

This bill allows local governments in Virginia to offer property tax breaks to owners who convert underutilized buildings, such as old retail or commercial spaces, into residential units. To qualify for these tax exemptions, at least 30% of the new residential units must be set aside for households earning 80% or less of the local median income, or the building owner must have a binding agreement with the state or local government to provide affordable housing. Localities have the flexibility to decide which buildings qualify, set additional rules, determine the amount of the tax exemption (either the increase in property value or a percentage of it), and how long the exemption will last, up to a maximum of 15 years. The bill also permits localities to offer other incentives, like reduced permit fees or faster permit processing, to encourage these conversions.

Committee Categories

Budget and Finance

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Bill text as passed Senate and House (SB181ER) (on 03/10/2026)

bill text


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