Bill > H1118

This bill proposes to amend Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40A, Section 3, to limit how cities and towns can restrict housing development through zoning ordinances or by-laws. Specifically, any new zoning rules adopted after January 1, 2016, that aim to control the pace of development or limit the number of building permits or other approvals issued within a certain timeframe will be invalid unless these restrictions are a reasonable response to clearly stated concerns and the municipality has a plan with a deadline to address those concerns. Furthermore, such growth restrictions can only last for one year, and any extension requires a vote by the town meeting or city council, based on a recommendation from the planning board that provides evidence for the need for the extension, and can only be extended for an additional year.