NC H507

Permits development applicants to choose which version of land-use regulations applies when rules or ordinances change between permit application submission and permit decision, preventing retroactive enforcement of new regulations.

Expands the definition of "development permit" to include zoning permits, site plan approvals, special use permits, variances, certificates of appropriateness, plat approvals, development agreements, building permits, subdivision approvals, state agency permits, driveway permits, erosion control permits, and sign permits.

Reduces the acreage threshold for multi-phased development vesting from 100 acres to 25 acres and extends the vesting period to 7 years from initial phase site plan approval.

Authorizes original civil actions in superior or federal court to challenge land development regulations on constitutional or ultra vires grounds without requiring administrative appeal first.

Allows developers to elect performance guarantee types and timing, reduce guarantees as improvements are completed, and use a single performance guarantee covering multiple development requirements instead of separate bonds.