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Proposal would bar zoning rules that exclude manufactured homes where year‑round housing is allowed
Summary
Committee considered language to require municipalities to allow manufactured housing types in any district that permits year‑round residential development; department counsel said the change clarifies existing statute and expands access in towns with zoning.
The committee reviewed a proposed change to municipal zoning law intended to reduce barriers to manufactured housing. Ellen Tchaikovsky of the Office of Legislative Council explained the amendment to Title 24 (section 4412) would make clear that mobile homes, modular homes and other factory‑built dwellings must be permitted in any zoning district that allows year‑round residential development.
Under current statute, municipalities may not exclude manufactured housing from the municipality entirely, but local bylaws sometimes constrain where such housing may locate. The amendment being discussed would clarify that manufactured housing cannot be excluded from any residential district and therefore should be treated on equal terms with conventional, “stick‑built” housing where year‑round residential use is permitted.
Supporters said the change is intended to reduce stigma and increase access to an affordable form of homeownership. Some committee members asked for more notice and municipal input; staff said the draft has been posted and that the committee will seek comment from organizations such as the Vermont League of Cities and Towns. No formal vote was taken during the session.
Ellen said the language is an amendment to an existing municipal zoning statute and that towns that require bylaws for special cases such as flood hazard areas (which remain excluded) are unaffected. Committee members asked staff to solicit comment from municipal associations before further action.
