Amends GS 113A-10 making organizational changes. New subsection two provides that where a state agency is required to prepare or comment on an environmental document under provisions of local law for residential development that are within existing residential development zones, do not impact protected environmental areas, and meet defined density and footprint thresholds, no separate environmental document is required to be prepared or published under Chapter 113A so long as the environmental document or comment meets the provisions of this Chapter. Clarifies that the subsection is not intended to override local zoning authority, eliminate environmental safeguards, weaken water or air quality standards, and bypass public notice requirements.

Sets out notice requirements for all agencies involved in the predevelopment phase of residential construction when providing written decisions on qualifying housing projects and notes consequences for failure to deliver notice.

Enacts GS 160D-403.1 exempting a local government from extended review requirements in all areas and districts zoned for residential use and not requiring an amendment to zoning regulations or conditional use permits for duplexes, accessory dwelling units, and small multi-family units. Clarifies this is not intended to override local zoning authority, eliminate environmental safeguards, weaken water or air quality standards, or bypass public notice requirements.

Mandates that DEQ provide rules and manage processes for expedited reviews of water and sewer expansions supporting housing, childcare facility construction, workforce housing tied to major employers, and broadband expansion supporting new housing. Clarifies this is not intended to override local zoning authority, eliminate environmental safeguards, weaken water or air quality standards, or bypass public notice requirements.  

Requires local housing authorities to create publicly available dashboards to track average permit review time, agency backlog, and project approval timelines and to submit an annual report to NCGA on program performance and funds allocated.

Appropriates $100,000 in recurring funds for 2026-27 from the General Fund to the Department of Environmental Quality to be used for staffing support to implement this act.