The bill amends Section 45-24-33 of the General Laws regarding zoning ordinances, introducing new provisions that require municipalities to establish specific minimum lot sizes for residential use. These minimums are set at 2,500 square feet for lots served by public water and sewer located within a quarter mile of a public transit stop, 5,000 square feet for lots served by public water and sewer, and one acre for all other lots. The bill emphasizes the importance of conserving farmlands, forests, and wetlands, and mandates that each city or town amend its zoning ordinance and comprehensive plan to conform to these new requirements.

Additionally, the bill includes a provision that each zoning ordinance must be updated by July 31, 2026, to include these minimum lot size parameters. It also specifies that all parcels remain subject to state law and regulation concerning drinking water wells, individual sewage disposal systems, and the protection of freshwater wetlands.

The bill further amends Section 45-23-44 concerning physical design requirements for subdivisions and land-development projects, ensuring that local regulations specify these requirements while adhering to the limitations set forth in the amended zoning ordinance. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
715: 45-24-33, 45-23-44