Bill > HB1434

This bill requires local governments with airports to identify and notify surrounding areas that could be affected by airport operations, known as "airport affected areas," by January 1, 2027. By July 1, 2027, these local governments, referred to as "airport affected governing bodies," must hold public hearings and adopt regulations to manage land use within these areas, with the goal of preventing "airport obstructions" – any structures or natural growth that penetrate "civil airport imaginary surfaces," which are defined by federal regulations related to safe airspace around airports. These regulations must limit the height of buildings and objects to keep these imaginary surfaces clear, and the state Department of Transportation will assist local bodies in ensuring compliance with federal aviation requirements. Local governments can integrate these airport area regulations into their existing zoning ordinances, and enforcement can be done through a permit system, with specific procedures for handling requests for variances that might create obstructions. If a local government fails to enact or enforce these regulations, it could lose eligibility for certain state transportation funds until compliance is achieved.