What Developers Need to Know About the Live Local Act Updates

July, 2025

As Florida continues to address housing affordability, the 2025 updates to the Live Local Act, via SB 1730, introduce critical changes that commercial real estate professionals and developers should have on their radar. These updates present both new opportunities and new boundaries for multifamily development in Florida.

Two Clear Paths for Affordable Housing Projects

Under SB 1730, there are now two main tracks for developing multifamily or mixed-use projects based on affordability percentages and zoning.

1. The 10% Affordable Path

This route allows for multifamily development on properties zoned for commercial or industrial use, as well as religious institution-owned properties, regardless of zoning, if at least 10% of units are designated affordable. The approval process for these projects can be administrative (i.e., no public hearings), but it’s important to note that local governments are not required to approve them.

2. The 40% Affordable Path

For developers offering 40% affordable units, the benefits expand. This pathway is open to projects on properties zoned commercial, industrial, mixed-use, or certain PUDs. Approval is administrative and mandatory, with no public hearings and no chance for denial. These developments must ensure affordability for at least 30 years, and at least 65% of the total square footage must be residential. Municipalities are also restricted from requiring more than 10% nonresidential use.

image of Wekiwa springs state park with people floating on inflatables, swimming and lounging in grass areas

Know the Limits: Wekiva Study Area

Notably, properties within the Wekiva Study Area are now excluded from Live Local Act eligibility. This change directly impacts areas like Ocoee, Winter Garden, Apopka, and Altamonte Springs—a substantial portion of northwest Orlando’s growth corridor.

Why This Matters

These updates offer clear incentives for developers focused on affordable and workforce housing, particularly in urban or redevelopment zones. For firms like Park Lake Development, which specialize in pre-development services including zoning strategy and entitlement navigation, understanding these nuances is key to unlocking value and avoiding costly roadblocks.

Let’s Build Smarter, Together

If you’re exploring new sites or reevaluating project feasibility under the updated Live Local framework, Park Lake can help. Our team is ready to guide you through zoning analysis, site suitability, and strategic alignment with evolving legislation.