Bill > H5958

This bill requires municipalities to amend their zoning ordinances to include several new provisions that promote development and housing flexibility. Specifically, municipalities must now implement development incentives that allow increased density or design flexibility in exchange for community benefits like open space, housing choices, or infrastructure improvements. The bill introduces a mandatory mixed-use overlay district requirement, which means cities and towns must designate at least 30% of their commercial zoning districts as areas where residential and commercial uses can be combined. These mixed-use overlay districts would allow multifamily housing and mixed-use developments by right, with performance standards that permit buildings up to three stories tall, ensure a minimum floor area ratio, and allow flexible residential density. If a municipality fails to establish these mixed-use overlay districts by the specified guidelines, state law will automatically permit residential uses in commercial zones. The bill aims to reduce administrative barriers, encourage more diverse and compact development, and create more housing opportunities by allowing residential uses in previously commercial-only areas. The provisions are designed to be flexible, allowing municipalities to tailor specific implementation details while meeting the overall requirements of increased development density and mixed-use potential.

Housing and Urban Affairs

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