A version of the following written comment was submitted to the Florida State Senate Committee on Community Affairs on November 18, 2025.
Florida’s housing market is under severe strain. Median home prices now exceed $450,000, with more than half of renter households being cost-burdened, spending over 30% of their income on housing. This growing imbalance between home prices and income has made it difficult for workers and families to live near employment centers, schools, and essential services. Senate Bill 208 presents an opportunity to address these challenges by strengthening property rights, removing restrictive zoning barriers, and streamlining permitting processes so the private sector can respond effectively to housing demand.
We share the same goal as Chair McClain: strengthening property rights and improving housing affordability in Florida. Senate Bill 208 would do both.
Strengthening property rights and preempting restrictive zoning
Senate Bill 208 reinforces the right of property owners to determine the most productive use of their land within reasonable bounds of public safety. In many communities, outdated zoning codes prohibit the construction of multifamily housing or mixed-use development on land already suitable for such purposes. These restrictions prevent willing owners and developers from responding to demand, blocking the natural evolution of neighborhoods.
By preempting local governments from imposing unnecessary barriers to housing, this bill restores the decision-making authority of property owners. Property rights are a cornerstone of economic freedom and prosperity, and zoning should not be used to preserve exclusivity or prevent lawful, market-driven development. When local governments restrict property owners’ ability to adapt to changing needs, the result is higher costs, less competition, and fewer choices for Florida families.
Streamlining development and reducing bureaucratic delays
This bill also strengthens Florida’s commitment to reducing red tape in housing production. Lengthy and uncertain approval processes often increase project costs and discourage investment. By refining permitting timelines and creating greater consistency across jurisdictions, Senate Bill 208 provides predictability for builders and investors while ensuring transparency for residents.
A streamlined permitting process allows private developers to bring new housing online faster, reducing the mismatch between supply and demand. Every additional week or month of delay increases carrying costs, which are ultimately passed on to renters and buyers. Cutting unnecessary bureaucracy is one of the most effective ways to expand housing supply without adding new spending or subsidies.
Encouraging private investment
Senate Bill 208 relies on private-sector leadership rather than government intervention. The bill does not mandate specific outcomes but instead allows developers and property owners to respond to the market. By lowering barriers and creating predictability, the legislation encourages investment in a range of housing types that meet the needs of Floridians.
Developers, small builders, and local investors are best positioned to assess demand and deliver housing where it is needed most. A regulatory framework that aids development leverages the efficiency of markets rather than expanding state programs or long-term subsidies. Allowing the private market to function more freely aligns with Florida’s economic strengths.
Reducing labor market distortions
Restrictive local zoning not only limits housing supply but also distorts Florida’s labor markets. When workers cannot find housing near job centers, they are forced to live farther away, increasing commute times and reducing productivity. Employers, in turn, face higher recruitment and retention costs.
By removing these barriers and allowing more housing to be built near employment hubs, Senate Bill 208 helps align workforce availability with economic growth. The legislation will make it easier for workers to live closer to jobs, improving both household well-being and business competitiveness.
Consideration: Tax preferences
While Senate Bill 208 takes a strong step toward deregulation, it continues to rely in part on property tax exemptions to encourage housing production. Although these incentives can help offset regulatory costs, they can also create uneven advantages among developers and distort market neutrality. Florida should continue to focus on broad-based deregulation as the most effective and equitable way to promote housing supply, ensuring that all property owners benefit equally from a freer market.
Policy adaptation for Florida
Senate Bill 208 represents an important step forward in expanding housing opportunities and protecting private property rights in Florida. By curbing restrictive local zoning, streamlining permitting, and encouraging private investment, the bill empowers property owners and the market to respond to demand for housing.
Reason Foundation supports the passage of this legislation and encourages the Florida Legislature to continue leading the way in housing reform that respects individual freedom, limits government interference, and promotes economic growth.