Bill > S0708

This bill requires municipalities to amend their zoning ordinances by July 31st to include several new provisions aimed at promoting more flexible and dense development. Specifically, the bill mandates that zoning ordinances now include development incentives that allow for increased density, additional uses, or dimensional flexibility in exchange for community benefits like open space, improved housing choices, or public facilities. The bill also introduces a new requirement for mixed-use overlay districts, which must be implemented in at least 30% of commercial zoning areas. These overlay districts will allow for more integrated land use, permitting multifamily dwellings and mixed-use developments by right in commercial zones, with performance standards that encourage higher-density, multi-story buildings with reduced parking requirements. If municipalities fail to implement these mixed-use overlay districts, certain uses will automatically be permitted by right in commercial zones. The Department of Housing is tasked with providing guidance and model ordinance language to help cities and towns comply with these new zoning requirements. The bill aims to create more flexible, economically vibrant, and housing-rich urban environments by breaking down traditional zoning barriers that separate residential and commercial uses.

Housing and Urban Affairs

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