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Woodbury officials prepare local zoning amendments as state law requires 'middle housing'
Summary
First Selectman Paul Zulpa told the Board that Public Act 25-1, effective July 1, 2026, requires municipalities to allow two- to nine-unit 'middle housing' on commercially zoned and mixed-use properties; Land Use staff have drafted amendments and the Zoning Commission will review the draft that evening with a public hearing expected later this summer.
First Selectman Paul Zulpa said the town is preparing local zoning rule changes after the Connecticut General Assembly passed Public Act 25-1, which takes effect July 1, 2026 and requires municipalities to permit two- to nine-unit 'middle housing' on commercially zoned and mixed-use parcels through a streamlined summary review process. Land Use staff have prepared draft amendments to Woodbury's zoning regulations, and Zulpa said the Zoning Commission was scheduled to review the draft the same evening and is expected to advance it to a public hearing in late July or early August.
Why it matters: the state law shortens local review for certain multiunit housing types on commercially zoned and mixed-use properties and includes provisions allowing similar approaches in residential zones. If the local amendments are adopted, property owners and developers may be able to seek approval for two- to nine-unit buildings under the new streamlined procedures. Residents and officials at the meeting noted that the change could alter housing options in commercial and mixed-use areas of town.
Board and public clarification: During privilege of the floor, resident Suzanne Lovig asked about the phrase 'transit-oriented middle housing.' Zulpa and the board clarified that 'transit-oriented' refers to proximity to transportation resources, not 'transient' housing. The board encouraged residents to watch for the Zoning Commission's public hearing and to participate in upcoming Meet & Greet sessions for additional explanation and comment.
What comes next: the Zoning Commission review that evening and the anticipated public hearing will provide the first public opportunity to view the draft amendments and submit comment. If the commission advances the changes after public comment, they will return to the Board for any required administrative or procedural steps. The timeline for final adoption depends on the commission's findings and any public revisions requested during the hearing.
The Board has not yet adopted final language; the meeting record indicates only that staff-drafted amendments exist and a public hearing is expected later this summer.
