As legislators in St. Paul attempt to address a massive housing shortage in Minnesota, a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced a package of housing bills that could impact local decision-making in cities across the state- including Chanhassen, Chaska, Carver and Victoria.
The proposed legislation would override local zoning authority, limit community input and mandate higher-density housing in some areas.
“These decisions should be made in Chanhassen—not St. Paul,” said Chanhassen mayor Elise Ryan in a message to residents this week, voicing concerns many local leaders share.
What’s Being Proposed?
Four bills are scheduled for committee hearings next week and could have impact statewide:
- SF 2229 / HF 1987 – Minnesota Starter Home Act
Cities would be prohibited from excluding single family homes, duplexes and accessory dwelling units—such as tiny homes or mother-in-law suites—on residential lots and set limits on minimum parking requirements. Cities could restrict development if infrastructure is inadequate. - SF 2231 / HF 2140 – More Homes, Right Places Act
Cities would be required to identify mixed-used housing zones along main roads and allow higher density housing in those zones. - SF 2286 / HF 2018 – Transforming Main Street Act
Aims to increase residential density in commercial downtown areas. Cities in Carver county and others would be required to allow buildings up to 75 feet tall in commercial zones and reduce the use of planned unit developments. - SF 1268 / HF 1309 – People Over Parking Act
Eliminates local parking minimums for new housing and commercial developments.
All of these bills would apply statewide meaning Carver County communities would be directly affected.
What’s the Impact?
Some local leaders argue that this legislation would take away critical local control, including city council oversight and community feedback. Currently, cities hold multiple public meetings to discuss zoning and development. Under the new proposals, projects could move forward after one community meeting and administrative approval.
Proponents say the bills cut red tape and will allow developers to build up housing stock faster to relieve some of the pressure of the housing shortage.
But some officials also worry about the strain added density could place on infrastructure, from roads to utilities, and the potential loss of neighborhood compatibility—such as a fourplex being built next to a single-family home.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all solution,” Ryan said. “We need flexibility to preserve the unique character of our neighborhoods.”
What Can You Do?
Learn more and share feedback with state lawmakers. Emails and calls before next week’s hearings can help ensure that local voices are considered in this statewide discussion.
For more details about the proposed bills, visit Minnesota House Session Daily or Minnesota Reformer’s breakdown.
What’s Next?
The Senate’s State and Local Government Committee is expected to review the bills Tuesday, March 25 at 12:30 p.m. The House committee date hasn’t been posted yet.
The League of Minnesota Cities issued a statement opposing the bills citing concerns over local planning being replaced by blanket mandates. Read the full statement here.
