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HOME Act would allow administrative review for qualifying properties; staff map preliminary list in Boulder
Summary
Staff told the Planning Board the recent HOME Act (passed March 2026) requires local code changes for certain smaller qualifying properties owned by public or housing‑affiliated entities and calls for administrative review, capped heights and comparable site‑design standards. Staff said exemptions (large industrial operations, airports, certain historic parcels) narrow the bill’s footprint but noted additional analysis is needed.
Planning staff explained the Housing Opportunities Made Easier (HOME) Act and its implications for Boulder. Under the HOME Act, qualifying properties—parcels no larger than 5 acres owned by school districts, state colleges, housing authorities, transit agencies or certain nonprofits—could be eligible for expedited administrative review under objective standards and typical mid‑rise height limits (generally up to three stories/38 feet unless neighboring residential developments are taller). The bill includes exemptions for large industrial operations, certain landmark properties and airport influence zones.
Eliza Blood said the city will need focused code amendments in Title 9 to revise procedures, use permissions, height and intensity standards and definitions before the Act’s implementation deadlines (begin planning by 12/31/2027 and reach compliance by 6/30/2028). Board members asked whether the HOME Act requires affordability levels; staff said the bill does not mandate a specific affordability threshold and that qualifying properties may include market‑rate housing unless a public or nonprofit owner proposes an affordable project.
