The bill amends Section 45-24-73 of the General Laws regarding zoning ordinances to establish design standards for accessory dwelling units (ADUs). It caps the size of ADUs at nine hundred square feet (900 sq. ft.) for studio or one-bedroom units and one thousand square feet (1,000 sq. ft.) for two-bedroom units. The bill requires consistent statewide treatment of ADUs and allows for one ADU per lot by right under specific conditions, such as being on owner-occupied properties or within existing structures.

Additionally, the bill outlines restrictions that municipalities cannot impose on ADUs, including limitations on tenant relationships, excessive fees, and unnecessary infrastructure improvements. It prohibits local ordinances from restricting ADU development in residentially zoned areas and ensures that private restrictions from homeowner associations that conflict with the bill's provisions are void. The act is designed to facilitate the creation of ADUs while maintaining compliance with state and federal housing laws, and it will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2038: 45-24-73