Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the State Zoning Act topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Town planner flags state zoning act amendments and potential local effects on housing
Summary
At the July 28 meeting, the town planner briefed the Planning Board on recent state zoning act amendments inserted into an economic development bill that could change variance practice, nonconforming‑lot rules and minimum unit/bedroom requirements.
The town planner told the Planning Board that “there are a number of amendments made to the state zoning act that were, inserted into the economic development bill that was just passed, and, again, to promote the development of housing.” The planner warned the changes could affect local practices such as the granting of variances, the merger doctrine for nonconforming lots and minimum unit/bedroom requirements in small‑lot areas. Staff said they will work with town counsel to clarify whether the town must amend its zoning bylaw and will brief the board on next steps.
During the discussion the planner noted one provision that could require new three‑bedroom houses up to about 1,150 square feet on certain lots, which may change how small, previously nonconforming lots are treated. Board members asked for guidance and additional detail; the planner said a joint meeting with the select board and a public workshop on the illustrative and regulatory plans are planned in the fall to give the board more context and to discuss possible bylaw changes.
