The bill amends Section 45-53-4 of the General Laws in Chapter 45-53, which pertains to "Low and Moderate Income Housing," by establishing a procedure for the approval of construction projects aimed at low- or moderate-income housing. It allows applicants to submit a comprehensive permit application, provided that at least 25% of the housing units are designated for low- or moderate-income residents. However, this streamlined process is not applicable in municipalities where low- or moderate-income housing exceeds 10% of year-round housing units and have an inclusionary zoning ordinance. The bill introduces provisions for density bonuses and other incentives for municipalities exceeding the 10% threshold, while detailing the application and review process for comprehensive permits.

Specifically for the town of Tiverton, the bill states that applications filed there shall not include accessory dwelling units as part of any project. It further emphasizes that once a comprehensive permit project receives final approval, no accessory dwelling units may be added to the project. The bill defines "accessory dwelling unit" as a residential living unit on the same lot where the principal use is legally established as a single-family or multi-family dwelling unit. Additionally, the bill outlines requirements for pre-application conferences, master plan reviews, and preliminary plan reviews to ensure an efficient and transparent process. This act would take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2589: 45-53-4