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2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Andrade and 10 co-sponsors

Senate Bill 505 streamlines zoning changes for property owners in Arkansas, allowing easier modifications that align with land use plans while ensuring community input.

Public Law 210

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Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 505 (SB 505) aims to amend existing laws regarding municipal planning in Arkansas. The primary intent of the bill is to establish an administrative procedure for changing the zoning or district designation of property under specific circumstances. This change is designed to streamline the process for property owners seeking to modify zoning classifications that align with the adopted land use plan.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant amendments to the Arkansas Code, particularly § 14-56-416, § 14-56-422, and § 14-56-423:

Administrative Procedure for Zoning Changes:

An administrative procedure may be established for changing the zone or district designation of a property if:
- The request is made by the property owner.
- The change is consistent with the adopted land use plan.
Such administrative changes are exempt from the requirements outlined in § 14-56-422 and § 14-56-423.

Appeal Process:

Decisions made regarding administrative changes can be appealed to the planning commission of the municipality.

Public Hearing Requirements:

The bill maintains existing requirements for public hearings on proposed plans, ordinances, and regulations, ensuring transparency and community involvement.

Certification and Adoption:

Following the adoption of plans and recommendations, these must be certified to the legislative body of the city for final adoption.

Limitations on Changes:

After the adoption of plans and regulations, any alterations must conform to the established procedures unless specified otherwise.

Affected Parties

Property Owners: The bill directly benefits property owners by simplifying the process for requesting zoning changes that align with municipal land use plans.

Municipal Planning Commissions: These bodies will have an expanded role in handling appeals and administrative changes, potentially increasing their workload.

Local Governments: Cities will need to adjust their procedures to accommodate the new administrative processes outlined in the bill.

Procedural Timeline

Introduced: March 18, 2025

Referred to Committees: The bill was referred to the Committee on City, County & Local Affairs in the Senate and later in the House.

Amendments: An amendment was adopted on March 31, 2025, refining the language and procedures outlined in the bill.

Passage: The bill was passed by both the Senate and House on April 1, 2025, and subsequently delivered to the Governor.

Enactment: SB 505 was signed into law and became Act 595 on April 14, 2025.

Conclusion

Senate Bill 505 represents a significant shift in the administrative processes governing municipal planning in Arkansas. By allowing for streamlined zoning changes that align with land use plans, the bill aims to facilitate property development while ensuring that community interests are still considered through the appeal process.

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