Bill > S2272

This bill, titled the "Multifamily Housing Act," mandates that municipalities with populations exceeding 40,000 must allow "middle housing" in areas previously zoned exclusively for single-family homes, with "middle housing" defined to include duplexes (two units), triplexes (three units), quadplexes (four units), cottage clusters (small detached units in groups), and townhouses (attached units on individual lots). The act aims to encourage denser, walkable communities by guaranteeing the right to build at least two units per parcel in urban areas, thereby reducing car dependency. While municipalities can still regulate the site and design of this middle housing, these regulations cannot be so restrictive as to prevent its development through excessive costs or delays, and they must align with statewide land use planning goals and the municipality's comprehensive plan. The bill also allows municipalities to designate specific zones exempt from these requirements, but properties within these exempted zones will be subject to a 1% "exclusionary zoning transactional fee" to support affordable housing programs. The state building code standards committee is tasked with developing a model middle housing ordinance by December 31, 2026, and the act takes effect immediately upon passage.

Housing and Urban Affairs

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