HI HB996

Creates a new farm cluster housing program on important agricultural lands allowing landowners to develop housing for farmers and farm employees with reduced subdivision and infrastructure requirements.

Establishes county ordinance requirements for farm cluster housing including priority permit processing, exemption from subdivision rules, and allowance for more units than standard zoning permits on lots 10 acres or larger.

Limits farm cluster housing to occupy no more than 5% of the lot or 10 acres (whichever is less) and restricts occupancy to active farmers/farm employees and their immediate family members.

Amends section 205-46.5 to include farm cluster housing in priority permit processing procedures for facilities on important agricultural lands alongside agricultural processing facilities.

Repeals section 205-45.5 which previously governed farm dwellings and employee housing on important agricultural lands, replacing it with the new farm cluster housing framework.