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Witness proposes 'root zones' model code to speed permitting in Tier 1 areas
Summary
Monroe Weinberger told the Committee on General & Housing that a state model code called 'root zones' (Residential Opportunity Overlay Towns) with clear, objective standards could allow by‑right permits and certificates of compliance, reducing appeals and accelerating housing production in Tier 1 areas.
Monroe Weinberger, executive chairperson of Let's Move Homes, told the Committee on General & Housing that a state model code he calls "root zones" (Residential Opportunity Overlay Towns) could streamline permitting and reduce project‑by‑project appeals in designated Tier 1 areas.
Weinberger said the model code would set clear, objective standards that local municipalities could adopt for defined subzones. "Once this model code existed ... a certificate of compliance is issued, and that is all the builder then needs to go and build these homes," he said, describing a process in which a zoning administrator checks objective criteria rather than sending projects through lengthy discretionary board hearings.
He argued the approach preserves public participation: the planning and rule‑making would occur up front during local adoption of the model code, with opportunities for testimony and local review, but individual projects that meet the standards would not be subject to the discretionary process that often provokes appeals.
Weinberger said the model code would include template codes for different community scales and would only include rules that can be answered with yes/no objective tests. Under his proposal, towns adopting those model rules would receive state review and confirmation that the local adoption met the state's housing goals.
When asked what ROOT stands for, Weinberger said it is short for "Residential Opportunity Overlay Towns," and emphasized the concept is intended to be Vermont‑specific: "This would be an organic Vermont specific model code." He said Let's Move Homes will circulate a two‑page concept paper and slides for the committee and can bring municipal officials to testify if the idea moves forward.
The testimony did not include any formal legislative action or vote; Weinberger framed the model code as a policy option the committee could investigate further. The committee requested the presentation materials and thanked the witness.
