HD 3689 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act to safeguard municipal permitting

HD 3689 modifies municipal permitting rules to give developers more time to start projects before new zoning rules apply. It requires construction under regular building permits to begin within 12 months and continue to completion to avoid following future zoning changes, while special permits or site plans have a 3-year window. For redevelopment on previously disturbed land, work is considered "started" once site prep begins, and phased projects must proceed expeditiously (as quickly as possible) between phases without needing constant work. This directly affects developers planning construction and municipalities enforcing zoning compliance. The bill clarifies when existing permits remain valid despite updated local land use regulations.
Bill status Introduction 0 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor