Rhode Island Senate Bill S1051

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/9/25
• Refer: 5/9/25

Caption

Allows the applicant for a land development project to utilize the administrative subdivision process established under 45-23-37 to request approval of a proposed subdivision of an oversized lot.

Impact

The implementation of S1051 is intended to streamline the process for developers seeking to utilize land efficiently, particularly in areas where existing lot sizes may not conform to current zoning and development schemes. By allowing subdivisions of oversized lots according to the characteristics of nearby properties, S1051 aims to facilitate residential development in urban areas while balancing considerations of local land use management. However, each city and town is required to amend its local regulations to align with the new standards by the end of 2025, which sets a clear timeline for compliance and adaptation within local government planning processes.

Summary

S1051 is a bill introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly aimed at amending provisions concerning land subdivision within towns and cities. This legislation permits applicants involved in land development projects to request approval for subdividing oversized lots into smaller residential or mixed-use parcels. The bill outlines specific criteria for determining how the subdivision can be executed based on the dimensions of surrounding properties, providing flexibility for developers while ensuring a baseline for compliance with local neighborhood standards.

Contention

While proponents of S1051 advocate for its potential to enhance housing availability and more effective land use, there are concerns regarding the control it imposes on local governance. Critics might argue that mandating local governments to adjust their zoning laws could undermine their ability to effectively manage community-specific needs and preferences. The requirement for towns and cities to conform their regulations could lead to disputes over local autonomy, especially in areas that may have historically maintained strict zoning guidelines to preserve community character or environmental standards.