CT HB05396

Religious organizations may develop affordable housing on their property subject only to summary review, bypassing local zoning restrictions on density and building height, effective October 1, 2026

At least 30% of units must be deed-restricted for 40 years to remain affordable to households earning 60% or less of area median income, with housing costs capped at 30% of income

Exemptions exclude properties owned for fewer than 3 years, located in flood hazard areas, within 3,200 feet of oil/gas extraction facilities, lacking water/sewer infrastructure, or used as cemeteries

Properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places cannot be demolished; State Register properties require written approval from the State Historic Preservation Officer for demolition

Planning or zoning commissions must render decisions within 90 days of application receipt, with possible 90-day extensions only if the applicant consents