Bill > LD1247

This bill establishes new restrictions on municipal ordinances for housing developments in areas with existing water and sewer infrastructure. Specifically, if a housing development is served by public or centrally managed water and sewer systems and is located in an area zoned for dwelling units, municipalities must allow dwelling units on lots as small as 5,000 square feet and can require no more than 2 off-street parking spaces for every 3 dwelling units. The bill limits municipal ordinances from creating more restrictive dimensional standards than those in effect on October 1, 2023, and caps road frontage requirements at 50 feet and setback requirements at 10 feet for front, rear, and side yards. Developers must provide written verification of adequate sewer and water services before occupancy certification, and the bill prevents municipalities from charging impact or connection fees greater than a pro-rated amount based on the development's square footage. The legislation does not exempt developments from existing subdivision requirements, shoreland zoning regulations, or private septic system rules, and it does not interfere with existing private easements or deed restrictions. The bill aims to facilitate housing development by reducing municipal barriers to construction in areas with existing infrastructure.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1247&snum=132