Bill > S1279

This bill establishes provisions for "starter home subdivisions," which are defined as new single-family housing developments on at least four acres of vacant or undeveloped land. It aims to prevent restrictive covenants, which are private agreements that limit how property can be used, from prohibiting or unreasonably hindering the creation of these starter home subdivisions. Specifically, the bill prohibits new restrictive covenants that would block starter home subdivisions and declares existing ones that do so void and unenforceable after July 1, 2026, allowing those affected to sue for damages. It also requires local governments to amend their land use plans and regulations to allow for smaller lot sizes (minimum 1,000 square feet), reduced setbacks (15 feet front/rear, 5 feet side), narrower lot widths (30 feet), and shallower lot depths (70 feet) in starter home subdivisions, while also permitting a density of at least 12 dwelling units per acre and preventing higher fees compared to other single-family subdivisions, though these regulations do not override laws protecting public health, safety, and welfare, such as building codes or environmental protections.

Business and Industry, Justice

Local Government and Taxation Committee (Senate)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/S1279/