Bill > S0504

This bill requires cities and towns to permit attached single-family dwellings (also known as townhouses or rowhouses) in all residential zoning districts, with significant flexibility in lot subdivision and development standards. Specifically, each attached dwelling would be allowed its own parcel through subdivision, regardless of existing minimum lot size, width, frontage, or depth requirements. The bill defines an attached single-family dwelling as a unit within a residential structure containing two or more units that are side-by-side and attached by a party wall at the lot line. Local municipalities must allow these dwellings if they have access to public utilities and do not exceed the maximum residential density permitted by the city or town's comprehensive plan. While cities can establish additional development standards, they cannot restrict buildings to less than three stories, limit floor area ratio to less than one, or require more than one parking space per unit. The Department of Housing is required to create model ordinance language to help municipalities implement these requirements, and cities must update their zoning ordinances within six months of the model language being published. If a city fails to update its ordinances, attached single-family dwellings will automatically be permitted under the model language. The bill aims to increase housing density and provide more flexible housing options in residential areas.

Housing and Urban Affairs

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