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SB 2477

Relating to certain municipal regulation of conversion of certain office buildings to mixed-use and multifamily residential occupancy.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Paul Bettencourt and 11 co-sponsors

SB 2477 preempts municipal authority to regulate office-to-residential building conversions, reducing local zoning controls to accelerate housing development but limiting cities' land-use planning discretion.

Effective on 9/1/25
#attorneygeneral(v2811) #citygovernment--landuse&zoning(i0064) #civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #countygovernment--landuse&zoning(i0098) #fees&othernontaxrevenue--local(i0361) #housing--general(i0405) #permits(s0011)
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Bill Summary · SB 2477

Legislative bill overview

SB 2477 restricts Texas municipalities' ability to regulate the conversion of office buildings into mixed-use and multifamily residential properties. The bill limits local zoning and code requirements that cities can impose on these conversions, effectively preempting certain municipal land-use controls at the state level.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses the vacant office space crisis in Texas cities by reducing regulatory barriers to residential conversions, potentially accelerating urban revitalization and housing supply. However, it simultaneously reduces local governments' authority to shape development according to community preferences and infrastructure capacity, creating tension between state-level housing goals and municipal planning authority.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. state preemption: Cities lose discretionary power over land-use decisions that directly affect neighborhood character, parking requirements, and infrastructure adequacy
  • Housing supply vs. community standards: While conversions may increase housing availability, municipalities cannot enforce standards related to affordability, design, or compatibility with existing neighborhoods
  • Infrastructure capacity: Reduced regulatory oversight may lead to residential density increases that strain local water, utilities, and transportation systems without corresponding municipal mitigation requirements

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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