Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S1433

Introduced
2/27/25  

Caption

Relative to zoning for housing production

Impact

The implementation of S1433 could significantly reshape local zoning laws throughout the Commonwealth. By requiring municipalities to incorporate multi-family housing into their zoning ordinances, the bill seeks to address the ongoing housing crisis by promoting the establishment of affordable and accessible housing options. Importantly, the bill enforces compliance measures, whereby municipalities that fail to adhere to these requirements will be ineligible for valuable housing-related funding and infrastructure programs. This stipulation underscores the bill's intent to create immediate, actionable pathways for expanded housing development.

Summary

Senate Bill S1433, titled 'An Act relative to zoning for housing production', aims to amend zoning regulations across Massachusetts to facilitate the development of multi-family housing. This bill mandates that all municipalities with populations exceeding 2,000 must maintain at least one zoning district that allows multi-family housing as a right. The bill specifically targets properties suitable for families, ensuring that age restrictions do not inhibit residential development. Furthermore, it establishes a minimum density requirement of 15 units per acre, aiming to increase housing availability in high-demand areas.

Contention

While proponents argue that S1433 will enhance housing availability and help alleviate the state's housing crisis, opponents raise concerns about local governance and property rights. Critics suggest that mandating specific zoning measures could undermine the authority of local governments to tailor land use according to community needs. The waiver provision allows municipalities some flexibility, but the implications of diminished local control over land use may lead to further discussions and debates as the bill progresses through the legislative process. This tension between state mandates and local oversight will likely be a focal point of contention surrounding the bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA S1786

Relative to a local option real estate transfer fee to create and preserve housing

MA S860

Relative to attainable housing in seasonal communities

MA H237

Relative to housing production

MA S862

Relative to year-round housing

MA H3963

Relative to the housing emergency

MA S861

Relative to year-round housing occupancy restriction

MA S2874

Authorizing the town of Harwich affordable housing trust to provide for the creation of attainable housing

MA H232

Relative to housing production plans

MA H4092

Authorizing the Provincetown year-round market rate rental housing trust to acquire year-round housing occupancy restrictions

MA S2702

Relative to affordable housing trust fund of the town of West Tisbury

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.