Adds new GS 160D-917, Military Influence Areas, to Article 9 of GS Chapter 160D. Defines “military influence area” as all property within five miles of a major military installation as defined in GS 143-151.71(5).

Authorizes a local government to adopt and enforce a zoning regulation or unified development ordinance providing specific requirements for military influence areas, notwithstanding the requirements of GS 160D-601(d) as amended. Establishes four minimum standards for such zoning regulation or unified development ordinance.

Provides that such zoning regulation or unified development ordinance regulating a military influence area is subject to the requirements of GS Chapter 160D except as otherwise provided and that nothing in this section shall be construed as denying a property owner their vested rights under Article 1 of this Chapter.

Appropriates $50,000 for 2026-27 from the General Fund to the Military Affairs Commission of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs for a joint land-use study between major military installations and local governments affected by this act.