Minnesota Senate Bill SF3964

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/19/24
• Refer: 2/19/24
• Refer: 3/4/24

Caption

City minimum residential densities and associated requirements establishment

Impact

If enacted, SF3964 will significantly alter state laws related to residential development and local governance over zoning and housing regulations. Specifically, the bill intends to reduce the power of local governments to impose stringent requirements that could limit housing density, such as strict aesthetic mandates and minimum square footage requirements. The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency is tasked with developing a model ordinance to help cities comply with these new requirements, thereby aiming for uniformity across various jurisdictions while still promoting local input through alternative density plans.

Summary

SF3964 aims to establish minimum residential density requirements for cities in Minnesota, particularly focusing on the development and authorization of various middle housing types such as duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and others. This bill mandates that cities permit higher densities on residential lots, particularly near major transit stops, to promote more efficient use of land and to counteract the housing shortage. The bill’s requirements will apply distinctly to cities of different classes, ensuring a tailored approach based on the urban density and the infrastructure of the city.

Contention

While supporters of SF3964 argue that increased housing density is essential to addressing the state's housing crisis and promoting sustainable urban development, there are notable concerns among local governments and advocacy groups regarding potential overreach. Critics suggest that the bill may undermine local control and the ability of communities to tailor zoning laws to fit their unique needs. The balance between ensuring sufficient housing availability and maintaining local government authority remains a point of significant contention among stakeholders involved in the housing sector.