Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S1321

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Relative to planning boards and subdivision control laws

Impact

The proposed amendments are likely to influence local municipal regulations significantly. By restricting the number of lots that can be created through certain divisions, the bill aims to alleviate some regulatory burdens faced by smaller-scale developers. Additionally, the bill enhances the planning board's authority to ensure that essential municipal services are provided before any new lot is developed. This modification seeks to ensure that development aligns with local infrastructure capabilities and community standards.

Summary

Senate Bill S1321 aims to amend certain provisions within the planning boards and subdivision control laws of Massachusetts, specifically under chapter 41 of the General Laws. The primary intent of the bill is to streamline processes related to the development of new lots by modifying existing guidelines. Key changes include provisions that limit the subdivision of land to no more than three new lots and altering terminology from 'twenty-one' to 'thirty' in specific regulatory contexts. These adjustments are designed to simplify minor developments and provide clarity in regulatory frameworks governing planning boards.

Contention

Despite its intended benefits, SB S1321 may draw contention among stakeholders, particularly local governments and community groups concerned about losing control over their land-use policies. Critics argue that the bill could lead to a uniform approach that fails to account for the unique needs of different towns and cities across Massachusetts. The increased authority granted to planning boards may also be perceived as an overreach, raising concerns about the balance of power between state and local authorities, particularly in regions with specific developmental challenges or goals.

Companion Bills

MA H2063

Similar To Reducing impervious surfaces

MA H2086

Similar To Relative to associate members of planning boards

MA H3555

Similar To Relative to local option for associate members of planning boards

MA S2647

Replaced by Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Municipalities and Regional Government to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to certain general and special municipal legislation.

Previously Filed As

MA SB1123

Planning and zoning: subdivisions: ministerial review.

MA HB1155

Residential subdivisions; authorize property owners to establish and/or amend covenants, conditions and restrictions.

MA HB1088

Planning; definition of subdivision, boundary line agreement.

MA SB1120

Subdivisions: tentative maps.

MA HB2616

Subdivisions; leased properties

MA AB3155

Subdivision Map Act: streamlined approval process: subdivisions.

MA SB1489

Subdivisions; definition; lots

MA AB3122

Streamlined housing approvals: objective planning standards and subdivision applications.

MA HB199

Modifies provisions relating to political subdivisions

MA S2050

Improving the internal controls within state agencies

Similar Bills

CA AB516

Sex offenses: disabled victims.

CA AB2123

District-based elections.

CA AB453

District-based elections.

MI HB4122

Health occupations: health professionals; permanent revocation of license or registration if convicted of sexual conduct under pretext of medical treatment; provide for. Amends sec. 16226 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16226). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4121'23

CA AB3171

Controlled substances: fentanyl.

CA AB892

Sex offenders: registration: solicitation of a minor.

MN SF1826

Payment rates establishment for certain substance use disorder treatment services

MN HF1994

Payment rates established for certain substance use disorder treatment services, and vendor eligibility recodified for payments from the behavioral health fund.