House Bill No. 7061, titled "An Act Concerning Mandatory Minimum Parking Requirements," proposes significant amendments to Connecticut's zoning regulations by repealing subsections (c) and (d) of section 8-2 of the general statutes. The bill eliminates the previous restrictions that limited municipalities to requiring only one parking space for studio or one-bedroom units and two spaces for larger units. Instead, it introduces a mandate for a minimum number of off-street motor vehicle parking spaces for any development, effective October 1, 2025. Additionally, the bill allows municipalities to consider vehicle miles traveled and vehicle trips generated when assessing traffic impacts, while also promoting energy-efficient development practices and renewable energy use.

Moreover, the bill amends subsection (a) of section 8-2o to require zoning regulations to designate areas for accessory apartments, ensuring at least one is permitted as of right on each lot with a single-family dwelling. It allows for both attached and detached accessory apartments and sets a maximum net floor area for these units. The legislation aims to enhance zoning flexibility to meet community housing and infrastructure needs while prohibiting municipalities from establishing minimum off-street parking requirements, thus eliminating the option for developers to pay fees in lieu of providing required parking spaces. These changes are expected to lead to potential revenue losses for municipalities starting in fiscal year 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 8-2o
PD Joint Favorable: 8-2o
File No. 596: 8-2o