AN ACT RELATING TO TOWNS AND CITIES -- ZONING ORDINANCES

HB 7219 establishes statewide standards for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), small secondary homes on residential properties, while giving municipalities the option to adopt these rules. It requires towns to allow one ADU per lot under specific conditions (e.g., owner-occupied for disability accommodations, large lots, or within existing structures) and sets clear limits on ADU size (minimum 900 sq. ft. studio or 1,200 sq. ft. two-bedroom), prohibits excessive fees or discriminatory restrictions, and bans bans on ADUs in new developments. The bill also prevents municipalities from requiring extra lot size or parking for ADUs, voids conflicting private property restrictions, and bans ADUs for short-term rentals. These rules take effect July 1, 2026, and apply to homeowners, renters, and local governments that choose to implement the standards.