summary
Introduced
02/02/2026
02/02/2026
In Committee
02/02/2026
02/02/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Creates the Transit-Oriented Overlay and Opportunity Retail Integration Zoning Act. Provides that the area located within a one-mile radius of a transit-oriented development is an ORI zone. Provides that the ORI zone is created automatically by operation of law. Provides that, if a conflict exists between the provisions of the ORI zone and a county or municipality, then the provisions of the ORI zone shall control. Provides that, within the ORI zone, the following uses shall be permitted by right: (1) retail, restaurant, and personal service establishments; (2) office, professional, medical, and administrative uses; (3) residential uses of all types, including single-family, multifamily, and mixed-use residential; (4) light manufacturing, research and development, storage warehousing, maker spaces, and innovation or technology-oriented industrial uses that do not involve heavy industrial processes; (5) institutional, educational, cultural, and governmental uses; (6) lodging and hospitality uses; (7) structured and accessory parking facilities; and (8) any other substantially similar use. Provides that a county or a municipality may enforce objective development standards applicable within the ORI zone. Provides that, if a county or municipality does not approve a proposal for a development in an ORI zone for a use that is permitted within an ORI zone within 90 days after receiving the application for the project, then the development proposal is deemed approved. Limits home rule powers. Effective January 1, 2026.
AI Summary
This bill, the Transit-Oriented Opportunity Retail Integration Zoning Act, automatically creates a special zoning district called an ORI zone (Opportunity, Retail, and Innovation zone) within a one-mile radius of any public transit facility like a train station or bus rapid transit stop, overriding any conflicting local zoning rules. Within this ORI zone, a wide range of uses are permitted by right, meaning they don't need special permits, including retail stores, restaurants, offices, all types of housing, light manufacturing and innovation-focused businesses, hotels, and parking facilities. While local governments can still enforce objective development standards like building height and setbacks, they must approve development proposals for permitted uses within 90 days, or the project is considered approved, and this act also limits the ability of local governments to enact rules that contradict its provisions, aiming to encourage development and economic activity near public transportation.
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Referred to Assignments (on 02/02/2026)
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...