New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB1361

Introduced

12/6/23

Refer

12/6/23

Report Pass

3/18/24

Engrossed

4/2/24

Refer

4/2/24

Report Pass

4/16/24

Enrolled

5/9/24

Chaptered

5/21/24

Passed

5/21/24

Caption

Relative to municipal land use regulation for manufactured housing and subdivisions.

Impact

The passage of HB 1361 is expected to have a significant impact on local regulations regarding land use. By enforcing a requirement for municipalities to provide opportunities for manufactured housing, the bill aims to combat housing shortages and enhance accessibility. Municipalities will have to adapt their zoning laws to accommodate manufactured housing, which may promote the development of these types of homes in areas where they were previously restricted. It stresses the need for equitable housing and development opportunities across various residential districts while keeping safety and zoning standards in consideration.

Summary

House Bill 1361 aims to reform municipal land use regulations specifically concerning manufactured housing and subdivisions. The bill mandates that municipalities offer 'reasonable and realistic' opportunities for the siting of manufactured housing on individual lots and within manufactured housing parks and subdivisions in residential areas. It effectively prohibits municipalities from excluding manufactured housing entirely through zoning ordinances or other regulatory measures. This legislative change seeks to address the ongoing housing challenges by increasing the availability of manufactured housing options.

Contention

Despite its intentions, HB 1361 has sparked debate among local governments and advocacy groups. Some proponents assert that allowing manufactured housing is a vital step forward in addressing affordable housing needs and combating homelessness. However, critics express concerns that the bill could diminish local control over land use and potentially undermine community standards. They worry that municipalities may struggle to balance housing development with preserving neighborhood character and addressing infrastructure concerns. The discussions reflect a broader concern about how best to manage housing development while ensuring community preferences are respected.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB95

Enabling municipalities to adopt rental practice regulations.

NH SB145

Relative to New Hampshire housing champion designation for municipalities and making appropriations therefor.

NH HB423

Relative to accessory dwelling unit uses allowed by right.

NH SB33

Relative to the fee differential for non-member lot rent in a manufactured housing park.

NH SB64

Establishing a study committee on resident-owned manufactured housing park disputes and oversight of resident-owned manufactured housing parks.

NH SB203

Relative to the board of manufactured housing.

NH HB639

Relative to the legalization and regulation of cannabis and making appropriations therefor.

NH HB56

Relative to permits for the siting of new landfills.

NH SB224

Relative to housing opportunity zones and inclusionary zoning.

NH HB612

Relative to the fees for New Hampshire wine manufacturers.

Similar Bills

CA SB561

Hazardous waste: Emergency Distress Flare Safe Disposal Act.

CA AB2754

Alcoholic beverage control.

NH HB1358

Relative to tenant and contract manufacturers of beer, wine, and liquor; allowing pharmacists to administer influenza, COVID-19, and other FDA licensed vaccines without explicit approval from the general court; and, restricting the purchase of real property on or around military installations.