NC S499

Local governments must allow residential development "by right" in all areas zoned for commercial, office, or retail use, with no zoning amendments or conditional use permits required

Residential development in commercial zones must be permitted to the same extent as in areas zoned for residential use

Conversion of existing commercial buildings (in whole or part) to residential use is explicitly included

Building codes, fire codes, and public health and safety regulations remain in effect and are not superseded

Effective date: October 1, 2025