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 limitations on parking space requirements for residential units, which mandated a maximum of one parking space for studio or one-bedroom units and two spaces for larger units. Instead, it introduces a new requirement for a minimum number of off-street motor vehicle parking spaces for any development. 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 ensure that zoning regulations designate areas for accessory apartments, allowing at least one such apartment on each lot with a single-family dwelling. These apartments can be either attached or detached from the main dwelling, with specific guidelines for their size and setbacks. The bill also repeals existing provisions that permitted municipalities to adopt regulations allowing developers to pay fees instead of providing required parking spaces, aligning with the new prohibition on minimum parking requirements. The changes are set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and may lead to revenue losses for municipalities due to the elimination of parking-related fees starting in fiscal year 2026.

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