27-06-2025
North Carolina bill to eliminate parking minimums statewide passes House unanimously
The North Carolina House passed a bill unanimously Wednesday that would block local governments from forcing developers to build parking.
Why it matters: An issue that has been controversial in Charlotte received bipartisan support in Raleigh.
The big picture: With a starting price tag of about $5,000 per space, parking mandates add to the rising costs of new construction. Those expenses are then passed on to residents and businesses as higher rent.
Removing excess Some worry that removing parking minimums will result in i parking, promptnsufficienting drivers to park in quiet neighborhoods or wherever else they can. Carter argues that's a misconception, and the market will self-regulate.
Between the lines: Over 20 groups were pushing for the Parking Lot Reform and Modernization Act, or House Bill 369, says Catawba Riverkeeper policy director Ryan Carter.
The bill's sponsors come from a range of industries, from construction to farming. They are Reps. Donnie Loftis (R-Gaston), Mark Brody (R-Anson, Union), Howard Penny Jr. (R-Harnett, Johnston) and Allison Dahle (D-Wake).
Zoom in: If it becomes law, the bill would override any local rules. Charlotte still requires parking for new developments. Even a newly built bar near the light rail needs to pave new spots to open.
Raleigh, Durham and Gastonia have all removed parking minimums.
The other side: Some worry that removing parking minimums will result in insufficient parking, prompting drivers to park in quiet neighborhoods or wherever else they can. Carter argues that's a misconception, and the market will self-regulate.
"If your community has parking minimums and people are still parking all over the place, then apparently your minimums aren't working," Carter says. "Sounds like your community needs more on-street parking regulations," like "no parking" signs.
Charlotte has started piloting more on-street residential permit programs in neighborhoods near South End.
What's inside: The bill also strikes a law that prohibits local governments from strengthening runoff requirements in the redevelopment of structures built before modern practices.
A provision in the bill that would have banned coal tar sealants didn't make it past committee.
What's next: The Parking Lot Reform and Modernization Act heads to the Senate.
