Advocates pitch 'root zones' model code to speed housing; committee asked for follow-up work
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Summary
A housing coalition presenter urged the committee to explore ‘root zones’ — state-supported model zoning overlays — to increase by‑right housing and reduce appeals, citing Burlington’s form-based code experience and earlier state housing efforts. Members requested additional analysis and pilot options.
A coalition representing builders, nonprofits and other stakeholders presented a proposal to the Natural Resources & Energy committee on Feb. 4 to create state-supported model zoning “root zones” that municipalities could adopt as overlay districts to enable more by‑right housing.
Presenter Gwyneth, from a housing coalition that described itself as representing nearly 270 organizations statewide, said the root-zone concept would create a state-crafted model zoning code towns could adopt and adapt. She argued that form-based and clear objective standards reduce subjective discretionary review and appeals that delay projects. “We need more housing opportunity,” she said, and urged the committee to consider a task force or pilot work to refine the model code.
Why it matters: Committee members heard that well-crafted model codes can reduce appeal‑driven delays and improve predictability for developers, but that developing and implementing model codes requires technical resources and municipal planning capacity. Presenters said municipal adoption would not be a state mandate but a state-supported option to help municipalities modernize bylaws affordably.
Details from the presentation The speaker described a range of elements a model code could include: dimensional rules, multiple footprints per lot, street and public-space standards that preserve walkability, and design controls aimed at keeping new construction consistent with local character. She cited Burlington’s 2018 form-based code, which the presenter said reduced appeal rates for zoning permits and helped some housing projects move forward.
Possible implementation pathway The proposed path is: (1) state produces a model code and design templates; (2) towns adopt an overlay root zone with limited customization; (3) a state review (agency unspecified in the presentation) confirms compliance with state goals; (4) adoption yields a largely objective, check‑the‑box permitting process that reduces subjective discretionary decisions and the triggers for appeals.
Committee responses and concerns Members expressed interest but raised questions about complexity, municipal capacity, and the cost of drafting and implementing model codes. One member noted the cost of municipal pilots can be substantial and suggested the state could reduce that burden by funding template development and limited municipal technical assistance. A few members emphasized the need for follow-up research and pilot projects before committing to a legislative mandate.
Next steps The chair and members asked proponents to return with more detailed materials, implementation cost estimates, and specific proposals for a task force or pilot funding. The committee did not vote on any policy changes during the session.
