This bill amends the General Laws in Chapter 45-24 entitled "Zoning Ordinances" by adding new definitions and making changes to existing definitions related to zoning and land development. It also includes provisions regarding permitted uses within zoning districts, including allowing temporary placement of mobile and manufactured homes on residential properties that have been rendered uninhabitable by a casualty, allowing appropriate access for people with disabilities to residential structures, and permitting accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on owner-occupied properties in residential zoning districts. The bill establishes design standards for ADUs and requires consistent statewide treatment of ADUs.

The bill aims to provide uniform zoning standards for ADUs in municipalities. It allows one ADU to be allowed by right on any residential lot with a total area of 20,000 square feet or more, as long as it is located within the existing footprint of the primary structure or existing secondary attached or detached structure and does not expand the footprint of the structure. The bill prohibits municipalities from imposing excessive restrictions on ADUs and outlines several restrictions that municipalities may not impose, such as restrictions on tenants based on familial relationships or age, unreasonable application or permitting fees, and discriminatory practices. The bill also allows ADUs to be part of applications for new primary dwelling units or subdivisions and exempts ADUs from utility assessment and tie-in fees. The bill repeals a section of the General Laws relating to zoning ordinances.

Statutes affected:
1036: 45-24-74