Bill > HB239

This bill, the Starter and Silver Homes Act of 2026, aims to limit certain zoning regulations that can hinder the development of starter and silver homes, which are defined as single-family homes or townhouses intended for one household. Specifically, it prohibits legislative bodies, such as county councils or city governments, from enforcing rules that establish minimum lot sizes larger than 5,000 square feet in areas connected to public water and sewer systems, set minimum square footage or exterior dimensions for single-family homes, impose lot coverage maximums for single-family homes and accessory structures, or require front and rear setbacks greater than 10 feet and side setbacks greater than 5 feet. Furthermore, it prevents these bodies from dictating design, architectural, or aesthetic elements for single-family homes and prohibits them from preventing the placement of townhouses in areas zoned for single-family residential use. The bill also allows owners of improved lots in single-family zones to subdivide their lots into three or fewer smaller lots, provided these new lots conform to local law, with an exception for lots created by subdivision within the preceding three years. These limitations do not apply to historic districts designated before July 1, 2025, agricultural land, or conservation property, and they do not supersede necessary building, fire, or public health and safety regulations that address immediate threats. The Act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Business and Industry

Economic Matters (House)

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0239?ys=2026RS