The bill establishes statewide standards for minimum off-street parking requirements by adding a new section, 45-24-78, to Chapter 45-24 of the General Laws. It specifies that municipalities shall not require more than one off-street parking space per single-family dwelling unit, one-half (0.5) of an off-street parking space per multi-family dwelling unit, and more than two (2) off-street parking spaces per one thousand (1,000) square feet of commercial space.

The bill also outlines project-based parking exemptions, stating that municipalities shall not require off-street parking for certain developments, including single-family dwelling units under twelve hundred (1,200) square feet, commercial spaces under three thousand (3,000) square feet, buildings undergoing adaptive reuse, accessory dwelling units, structures in historic districts, child daycare centers, low- or moderate-income housing, and assisted living residences or age-restricted private housing.

Furthermore, the bill affirms that municipalities retain the authority to establish their own requirements for off-street loading, bicycle parking, and to require parking, traffic, or access studies in connection with development applications. It ensures that the provisions comply with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act regarding accessible parking spaces. Municipalities may petition the department of housing for waivers from the parking requirements based on empirical studies demonstrating significant harm that cannot be managed through alternative means. Each city or town is required to amend its zoning ordinances to conform to these new standards by December 31, 2026. The act will take effect upon passage.