Housing (Zoning)

This bill draft (HD 2511) aims to include accessory dwelling units (ADUs, like in-law suites or backyard cottages) within the state's subsidized housing inventory. It would require housing authorities to count ADUs as part of their affordable housing stock when reporting on subsidized housing availability. The bill directly affects state housing agencies, local municipalities, and developers building or converting properties with ADUs. As a draft currently being worked on by House Counsel, specific implementation details and timelines are not yet finalized. No substantive policy provisions or voting records are available in the provided context.

By Mr. Finegold, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 993) of Barry R. Finegold for legislation to accelerate housing production through a combination of incentives, zoning reforms, and financing solutions. Housing.

By Mr. Cyr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1433) of Julian Cyr for legislation relative to zoning for multi-family housing production. Municipalities and Regional Government.

By Mr. Cyr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1434) of Julian Cyr for legislation to fund affordable housing and incentivize zoning reform by imposing a fee upon the transfer of real property interest in any real property situated within the city or town. Municipalities and Regional Government.

This bill requires cities and towns with less than 10% multi-family housing to designate at least 1.5% of their "calculable developable land" (land suitable for housing, excluding protected areas like wetlands and public parks) for multi-family zoning. It mandates that these zones allow apartment or condo developments at a minimum density of 20 units per acre without special approval. The bill also streamlines approval for "open space residential" projects and creates a commission to study income limits for affordable housing, with a 2026 deadline for towns to identify developable land. It affects all Massachusetts municipalities and aims to expand housing options by clarifying land use rules.