Are you trying to navigate Florida’s complex housing market? Recent legislative changes, specifically Senate Bills 1730 and 784, are set to reshape Florida housing advancement by streamlining project approvals and reducing development hurdles. This article delves into the key provisions of these new laws and what they mean for developers, local governments, and anyone interested in the future of housing in Florida.
Florida’s Housing Landscape: New Laws Reshape Advancement
Florida’s housing market has long been a hot topic, wiht rising prices adn limited inventory. In response, the state legislature has been actively working to address these challenges. Recent legislative efforts, particularly Senate Bills (SB) 1730 and 784, signal a important shift in how housing projects are approved and developed. These new laws aim to streamline processes,reduce red tape,and ultimately boost housing production across the state.
SB 1730: Streamlining Affordable Housing Development
SB 1730,an amendment to the existing Live Local Act (LLA),focuses on making it easier to build mixed-income housing. The original LLA, enacted in 2023, aimed to encourage affordable housing projects. SB 1730 builds upon this foundation by addressing some of the hurdles developers faced in getting projects approved.
key Provisions of SB 1730:
- Administrative Approval: Projects meeting affordable housing criteria now bypass additional public hearings,streamlining the approval process.
- density and Height Protections: Local governments can’t restrict density, floor area ratio (FAR), or height below levels allowed as of July 1, 2023, preventing “downzoning” efforts.
- PUD Flexibility: Affordable housing projects are permitted in Planned Unit developments (PUDs) and flex-zoned areas.
- Moratorium Limits: Building moratoriums are capped at 90 days within a three-year period, speeding up project timelines.
- Legal Fee Reimbursement: Developers who win lawsuits against local governments over LLA projects can have their legal fees covered, up to $250,000.
- parking Reductions: Reduced parking requirements are available for projects near transit, major hubs, or with nearby parking options.
- Demolition Approval: Demolition of existing structures on affordable housing sites can be administratively approved.
- Historic Property Considerations: Height restrictions in historic districts are limited, and architectural design compliance is allowed without affecting project density.
- Religious Property Development: Multifamily housing is allowed on religious properties, with a requirement for 10% affordable units.
These changes are designed to make affordable housing projects more viable and less susceptible to delays.
did you know? Parking minimums often substantially increase project costs.SB 1730’s parking reductions can provide considerable financial relief for developers.
SB 784: Expediting the Platting Process
SB 784 tackles another major bottleneck in housing development: the platting process. Platting, the process of subdividing land, has frequently enough been a lengthy and complex undertaking. This bill aims to simplify and accelerate this crucial step.
Key Changes in SB 784:
- Administrative Review: Plat and replat applications will be reviewed and approved administratively, eliminating the need for local governing body approvals.
- Timelines: Local governments must establish clear timelines for plat application review and approval.
- Municipal Jurisdiction: Plats within municipal boundaries fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the municipality, streamlining the process.
By streamlining the platting process, SB 784 promises to reduce project timelines and costs, ultimately contributing to increased housing supply.
Pro Tip: developers should familiarize themselves with the specific requirements and timelines established by their local governments under SB 784 to ensure efficient project approvals.
The Impact on Florida’s housing Future
Both SB 1730 and SB 784 represent significant steps toward addressing Florida’s housing challenges.By reducing bureaucratic hurdles and streamlining approval processes, these laws aim to encourage more housing development, particularly affordable and mixed-income projects.
The impact of these bills will be felt across the state, from urban centers to suburban communities. Developers, local governments, and residents alike will need to adapt to the new regulatory landscape.
Reader Question: How do you think these new laws will affect housing affordability in your community? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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