Bill > HB867

This bill expands the authority of all local governments in Virginia to create affordable housing programs by amending their zoning ordinances, a power previously limited to specific types of counties and cities. These programs aim to increase the availability of affordable housing by allowing for measures such as smaller lot sizes, density increases, contributions to housing trust funds instead of building units, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), conversions of commercial spaces to residential use, and the allowance of duplexes and triplexes in single-family zones. The bill also mandates that before adopting such programs, localities must form an advisory committee to gather input from various stakeholders, including residents, developers, and housing advocates, to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of proposed measures. Importantly, the bill has a delayed effective date of July 1, 2027, and its provisions will only take effect if reenacted by the General Assembly in 2027, with a further stipulation that it does not apply to any local ordinance adopted before January 1, 2026.

Government Affairs

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB867