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Planning staff brief ZBA on new state ADU rules, Permit Extension Act and proposed fish-processing zoning amendment
Summary
Planning staff told the December 10 meeting that a new state ADU law (effective Feb. 2) allows accessory dwelling units up to 900 sq. ft., the Permit Extension Act automatically extends certain permits for two years, and staff proposed a zoning amendment to allow fish/seafood processing in some industrial districts.
Planning staff used the Dec. 10 zoning-board session to summarize several state and local changes that will affect Chelsea property owners and prospective businesses.
John DePries told the board a new state accessory dwelling unit (ADU) law takes effect Feb. 2 and generally allows an ADU in districts that permit single-family uses. The staff summary described key limits: an ADU cannot exceed half the size of the primary unit and may not be larger than 900 square feet. DePries said local regulators can adopt reasonable dimensional and design guidelines, but the state restricts some local controls (for example, limitations tied to ownership, family relationship or blanket requirements that would effectively ban ADUs). He also said the state permits limits on short-term rentals, which the proposed local amendment would preserve.
DePries also briefed the board on the Permit Extension Act signed as part of a recent economic development bill: land-use permits and related environmental and licensing permits that were active between Jan. 1, 2023 and Jan. 1, 2025 are automatically extended by two years beyond their original expiration dates. Planning staff said those extensions are automatic and do not require separate filings, which may complicate future expiration timing.
Finally, staff reported they have submitted a zoning amendment to the council to allow fish and seafood processing in certain industrial districts, citing an interested business and noting existing seafood processors on Eastern Ave as precedent. Any change would come through the formal council amendment and public-review process.
Planning staff said the city has submitted a local zoning amendment and will continue to review state guidance as it arrives.
