Bill > H298

This bill aims to improve housing opportunities in Massachusetts. The key provisions are: 1. It requires cities and towns to permit multifamily development by right (without a special permit) in at least 1.5% of the developable land area, with a minimum density of 20 dwelling units per acre. This expands the areas where multifamily housing can be built more easily. 2. It removes the requirement for open space residential developments (also known as cluster developments) to submit a plan showing a standard subdivision as a condition for approval. This streamlines the approval process for these types of developments. 3. It requires zoning ordinances and bylaws to classify "accessory dwelling units" (self-contained housing units within or attached to a single-family home) as a use permitted by right in all single-family residential districts, without unreasonable regulations on their location, size, or design. 4. It establishes a new "site plan review" process for development projects that are allowed by right, giving cities and towns a way to review and condition the site design without requiring a special permit or variance. The overall goal is to facilitate the production of more housing, including multifamily and accessory units, by reducing regulatory barriers.

Business and Industry

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H298