Bill > H1516

This bill aims to expedite multifamily housing construction in Massachusetts by making several key changes to zoning regulations. First, it requires cities and towns to designate at least 1.5% of their developable land area for multifamily housing development, with a minimum density of 20 dwelling units per acre, defined as apartment or condominium buildings with more than three units. The bill also modifies regulations around cluster developments, removing barriers to their approval and eliminating requirements for developers to submit standard subdivision plans when proposing cluster developments. Additionally, the legislation mandates that accessory dwelling units (self-contained housing units within or attached to single-family homes) must be permitted by right in all single-family residential zones, with restrictions on how local governments can regulate their location, dimensions, and design. These provisions are intended to streamline housing development, increase housing density, and provide more flexible housing options by reducing local zoning barriers that can impede new housing construction.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1516