Bill > H3844

This bill aims to expedite the construction of multifamily housing in Massachusetts. The key provisions include: 1. Prohibiting zoning ordinances or bylaws from unreasonably regulating the use of land for open space residential development in residential districts. 2. Requiring zoning ordinances and bylaws to classify "accessory dwelling units" as a use permitted by right in all single-family residential zoning districts, with certain size and design requirements. 3. Requiring municipalities to provide one or more districts where multifamily housing is permitted as of right, with minimum gross density requirements of 8 units per acre in rural towns and 15 units per acre in other municipalities, located in eligible areas like near transit stations or existing commercial districts. 4. Allowing a simple majority vote to adopt zoning changes consistent with the multifamily housing requirements if a municipality has failed to meet the minimum requirements. 5. Updating terminology from "cluster development" to "open space residential development" in the relevant laws. The overall goal is to encourage and facilitate the construction of more multifamily housing options across Massachusetts.

Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/H3844