Connecticut House Bill HB05189

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/23
• Refer: 1/11/23

Caption

An Act Exempting Certain Vacant Lots From Conformance With Zoning Regulations.

Impact

The proposed bill could significantly affect how zoning laws are applied to vacant lots, particularly for developers and property owners. By allowing construction to proceed without adhering to any new zoning regulations post-plan approval, this legislation seeks to streamline development processes. This could potentially accelerate construction timelines, attract more investment into real estate, and encourage new projects in areas where zoning changes may have previously stymied development activities.

Summary

House Bill 05189 proposes specific amendments to current zoning regulations, particularly focusing on certain vacant lots. The bill intends to exempt construction on these lots from conforming to changes in zoning regulations that may occur after a subdivision or resubdivision plan has been approved. This means that if a vacant lot complies with the original zoning when the subdivision was established, it will not be subjected to any new zoning laws enacted afterwards. This aims to provide more stability and predictability for land developers engaged in long-term projects.

Contention

While the bill appears to benefit developers by reducing regulatory uncertainties, it may raise concerns regarding the potential lack of oversight in areas of urban planning and development. Critics could argue that exempting certain vacant lots from new zoning laws undermines the role of local governments in managing land use effectively. There is a possibility that this could lead to developments that do not align with the long-term planning goals of communities, particularly if those goals evolve after the original subdivision regulations were put into place.