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Council refers manufactured-home zoning amendment to planning board to support affordable housing goal
Summary
Council approved a referral asking the planning board for an advisory opinion on an amendment that would allow state-defined manufactured homes in zones that permit single-family stick-built homes.
The South Kingstown Town Council on June 16 voted to send a proposed amendment that would allow manufactured homes in areas zoned for single‑family homes to the planning board for an advisory opinion.
Town staff told the council the amendment is intended to expand affordable housing options by allowing state‑defined manufactured homes — units built to the state's manufactured‑home standards — in any zone where conventional single‑family homes are already permitted. Staff emphasized the amendment would mirror the state's permissive legislation and is not mandatory.
Staff cautioned the planning board may ask detailed questions and that the review could require additional vetting. Council members discussed whether manufactured homes should be allowed “as‑of‑right” where single‑family homes are allowed or be subject to a special‑use permit. Staff said the draft sent to the planning board would indicate an as‑of‑right approach but that the council retains the authority to adopt a different outcome after receiving the planning board’s advisory opinion and holding public hearings.
Council members also noted the change would not apply to industrial zones and agreed the planning board may recommend narrower or different allowances by zone. The council approved the referral by voice vote.
