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HB 3921

Relating to urban growth boundaries; and declaring an emergency.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Virgle Osborne and 1 co-sponsor

Summary of HB 3921 - Urban Growth Boundary Legislation Main Purpose and IntentHB 3921 is a bill that aims to reform the process for establishing and modifying urban growth boundari

Chapter 215, (2025 Laws): Effective date May 28, 2025.
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Bill Summary · HB 3921

Summary of HB 3921 - Urban Growth Boundary Legislation

Main Purpose and Intent

HB 3921 is a bill that aims to reform the process for establishing and modifying urban growth boundaries (UGBs) within the state. The primary goal is to provide more flexibility and local control over UGB decisions, while also introducing new requirements for public engagement and environmental impact analysis.

Key Provisions

The key elements of HB 3921 include:

  1. UGB Establishment and Expansion:

    • Allows cities and counties to propose UGB expansions of up to 200 acres without requiring approval from the state land use planning agency.
    • Requires a public hearing and local government vote to approve any UGB expansions.
    • Mandates an environmental impact study for expansions over 100 acres to analyze effects on farmland, natural habitats, and infrastructure.

  2. UGB Contraction:

    • Permits cities and counties to contract their UGBs without state approval, as long as they hold a public hearing and vote.
    • Requires an analysis of the fiscal impacts and potential displacement of residents/businesses due to contraction.

  3. Regional Coordination:

    • Encourages neighboring jurisdictions to collaborate on UGB decisions that cross municipal boundaries.
    • Establishes a regional stakeholder advisory committee to provide input on multi-jurisdictional UGB proposals.

  4. Periodic Review:

    • Requires cities and counties to review their UGBs at least once every 10 years and make adjustments as needed.
    • Mandates public outreach and engagement as part of the review process.

Affected Parties

The primary parties affected by HB 3921 include:

  • Local city and county governments responsible for land use planning and UGB management
  • Developers, landowners, and residents/businesses within or near urban growth boundaries
  • Environmental advocacy groups and agricultural interests concerned about growth impacts
  • State land use planning agencies that currently oversee UGB decisions

Timeline and Procedures

HB 3921 was introduced in March 2025 and passed into law in May 2025, with an effective date of May 28, 2025. The new UGB requirements and procedures outlined in the bill will apply to all local governments starting from the effective date, requiring them to update their planning processes accordingly.

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

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