Bill S.133, introduced by Senators Ram Hinsdale, Chittenden, and Clarkson, seeks to amend Vermont's municipal zoning laws, land use regulations, and brownfields management. Key provisions include preventing zoning bylaws from prohibiting related occupants from constructing additional dwelling units on the same parcel and requiring that areas zoned for industrial use, when converted to residential development, must allow for a minimum of five units per acre. The bill also mandates the Commissioner of Housing and Community Development to report on the development of a density algorithm for inclusionary zoning and the potential adoption of minimal design standards to streamline municipal permit processing.

In terms of brownfields management, the bill establishes a Brownfield Property Cleanup Program aimed at remediating contaminated sites, particularly those intended for housing. It introduces stricter requirements for permit applicants whose activities may significantly impact wetlands, mandating a restoration ratio of 2:1 for wetland loss exceeding 5,000 square feet, with a reduced ratio of 1:1 in designated areas. The bill also requires the Secretary of Natural Resources to provide annual reports on wetland changes and to publish guidance to assist applicants by December 15, 2025. Overall, S.133 aims to enhance housing development, streamline regulatory processes, and improve environmental management in Vermont, with an effective date of July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 24-4303, 10-6034, 10-6033, 10-8504, 10-6081, 10-6084(g), 10-6084, 10-6604c, 10-6641, 10-902, 10-913, 10-914, 10-918, 10-919