Bill > S2438

This bill establishes "Starter Home Districts" as a new type of zoning district, similar to existing "Smart Growth Zoning Districts," aimed at encouraging the development of starter homes, which are defined as single-family homes not exceeding 1,850 square feet of heated living area, with the possibility of including accessory dwelling units. These districts must be at least 3 contiguous acres within an "eligible location" – areas with good infrastructure, transportation access, or underutilized facilities, such as town centers or areas near transit stations. The bill outlines requirements for these districts, including minimum housing densities, affordability targets for a portion of the units (at least 15% affordable to those at or below 80% of the area median income, and 25% affordable to those at or below 110% of the area median income), and prohibits limitations on building permits or overly restrictive local environmental regulations. Cities and towns can modify standard zoning rules like height and setbacks to facilitate development within these districts, and the state's Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) will oversee the approval process, provide incentives like payments from the Smart Growth Housing Trust Fund, and monitor compliance. The bill also introduces a "production bonus payment" for new housing units built in these districts and a "density bonus payment" for each unit created. Furthermore, it requires cities and towns to submit housing production plans or summaries, and if construction doesn't begin within three years, any incentive money received must be repaid.