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Newington staff previews regulation changes to comply with state middle-housing law
Summary
Planning staff told the commission that Town Planning & Zoning will consider amendments to implement Special Session Public Act 25-1 (middle housing), allowing two- to nine-unit buildings in many commercial zones, changing parking requirements for developments under 16 units, and aiming for rule adoption by July 1.
Planning staff briefed the commission on upcoming Town Planning & Zoning regulation amendments required by Special Session Public Act 25-1 to allow middle-housing (two- to nine-unit) forms in many commercial zones and to modify local parking requirements.
Staff said the regulation package will include a range of housing types (duplexes, cottage courts, townhouses) and noted the law sets a July 1 compliance timeline. Key provisions discussed included an allowance for two- to nine-unit housing "as of right" in certain zones and a parking rule that prevents denial of a proposal solely because off-street parking is not provided for developments under 16 units; above 16 units the town may require parking standards (one space per studio/one-bedroom; two per two-bedroom-plus was described).
Why it matters: The changes reflect state-mandated housing policy and will alter what uses can be approved in commercial zones and how the town considers parking for smaller multifamily developments. Planning staff said drafts will go to TPZ with multiple review meetings before a finalized regulation takes effect.
Next steps: Staff expects to present draft regulations at upcoming TPZ meetings for review and public comment ahead of the statutory deadline.
