Middletown committee approves 1,200-square-foot minimum for new single-family homes

The Middletown Legislative Committee voted to require a minimum of 1,200 square feet of livable floor space for new single-family dwellings, the committee’s presiding officer said during a meeting of the body.

A commissioner who presented the item said the change would use the town’s zoning code definition of “livable floor space.” “This was at, the commissioner’s recommendation to have a minimum square footage for new new single family dwellings,” the commissioner said, adding that the town would rely on its existing definition in the zoning code.

Committee members asked whether the requirement would apply to projects already in the pipeline. The presenter and others clarified the intent was not to apply the rule retroactively to projects with existing building permits: “If they already have the building permit, then they’re they’re fine,” a committee member stated. The committee agreed the rule would apply to new permits issued after the ordinance takes effect.

Members also confirmed the change applies to single-family homes only, not duplexes. The presiding officer asked, “1200 square feet. Correct?” and the presenter agreed.

After discussion, the presiding officer moved to approve the minimum square-footage requirement and asked for a second; Mister Green seconded. The committee recorded a unanimous voice vote in favor at the committee level and the motion passed. The approved language will be placed on the next full council agenda for consideration by the full council.

The committee did not discuss specific enforcement procedures or an effective date in detail; those details will be set as the item proceeds to the full council.