This bill, Minnesota Senate File No. 2558, seeks to limit the authority of municipalities in regulating certain aspects of residential development. Specifically, it prohibits municipalities from imposing aesthetic or construction-related requirements on housing developments, including restrictions on construction materials, architectural elements, building egress, durability, energy efficiency, or light access requirements, unless such requirements are mandated by the State Building Code or other state or federal laws.

Key Provisions:

1. Restrictions on Aesthetic and Construction Mandates

   • Municipalities cannot impose additional restrictions on residential developments beyond what is required by the State Building Code or higher governmental authority.

2. Historic Preservation Exemption

   • Properties located within a historic district (as designated under Minnesota law) are exempt from these restrictions, allowing municipalities to enforce preservation-related standards.

3. Interim Ordinance Ban

   • Municipalities cannot pass interim ordinances related to these policies, meaning they cannot create temporary restrictions while considering permanent changes.

Implications:

• Supports housing development by preventing local governments from adding extra design or building requirements.
  
• Restricts local control over residential aesthetics and construction methods.
  
• Exempts historic districts, allowing them to retain stricter regulations.

This bill is aimed at reducing regulatory barriers to residential construction and ensuring consistency across municipalities by aligning local requirements with the statewide code.