Pennsylvania House Bill HB2240

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/29/24
• Refer: 4/29/24

Caption

In general provisions regarding condominiums, further providing for applicability of local ordinances, regulations and building codes; in creation, alteration and termination of condominiums, further providing for creation of condominium; in general provisions regarding cooperatives, further providing for applicability of local ordinances, regulations and building codes; in creation, alteration and termination of cooperatives, further providing for creation of cooperative ownership; in general provisions regarding planned communities, further providing for applicability of local ordinances, regulations and building codes; and, in creation, alteration and termination of planned communities, further providing for creation of planned community.

Impact

The proposed legislation is expected to standardize the creation and operation of condominiums and cooperative ownerships across Pennsylvania. By mandating compliance with minimal state-level standards, the bill seeks to reduce variations among localities, which could potentially foster more uniformity in real estate development. It aims to assist local planning agencies in creating a clearer record of existing developments and the resources associated with them, such as sanitary systems and recreation facilities, thus promoting better resource management and urban planning.

Summary

House Bill 2240 aims to amend Title 68 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes regarding the creation and regulation of condominiums, cooperatives, and planned communities. The bill clarifies the applicability of local ordinances, regulations, and building codes to these types of ownership, ensuring that local laws do not impose stricter requirements on condominiums and cooperatives than on other types of developments. It also requires the establishment of annual reports by planning agencies, detailing the infrastructure and total units of condominium and cooperative developments for better local government oversight.

Sentiment

There appears to be a mixed sentiment surrounding HB 2240 among legislators and stakeholders. Proponents argue that the bill will streamline the development process, making it easier to establish and manage condominiums and cooperatives. They posit that this simplification will contribute positively to housing availability and community development. However, there are concerns from some local government representatives who fear that the legislation may undermine local regulations that are designed to address unique community needs, potentially leading to conflicts between state and local governance.

Contention

Notably, the contention revolves around the balance of state versus local control, particularly in how local municipalities manage development through their ordinances. Critics are particularly vocal about the implication that state law could override local laws that are customized to foster community well-being. As the bill moves forward, the discussions may uncover differing viewpoints on how much autonomy local governments should retain versus the need for a standardized, state-driven approach to property development.