AN ACT RELATING TO TOWNS AND CITIES -- ZONING ORDINANCES

SB 2035 requires that accessory dwelling units (ADUs) be allowed without special approval only if the property is owner-occupied and the owner has resided there for at least five years. This directly affects property owners seeking to build ADUs, as they must meet the 5-year residency requirement before ADUs can be permitted by right. The bill also sets uniform standards, including minimum size requirements (e.g., 900 sq. ft. for one-bedroom ADUs), prohibits excessive fees or discriminatory restrictions, and bans ADUs for short-term rentals. It ensures municipalities cannot impose additional lot requirements or restrict ADUs based on income unless part of specific affordable housing programs.