Bill > HB05391

This bill, effective October 1, 2026, clarifies that municipalities that have zoning authority granted through a special act can impose fines to enforce their zoning regulations, which include bylaws, ordinances, rules, and regulations. It specifies that these fines can range from ten to one hundred dollars for each day a violation continues, with increased penalties for willful violations, including potential jail time. The bill also allows for civil penalties of up to $2,500 for failing to comply with orders to cease violations, particularly those related to land grading or erosion control, with these penalties payable to the municipality. Furthermore, it provides a mechanism for defendants in criminal zoning cases to request their prosecution be abated if it relies on a regulation that is currently being interpreted in a separate civil case, and allows courts to award costs and attorney fees to municipalities if they win a case and the violation is found to be willful.

Housing and Urban Affairs

Planning and Development Committee (Joint)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB05391&which_year=2026