Massachusetts, a state known for its charming historic homes and, apparently, its surprisingly tough zoning laws, just decided to lighten up. For years, if you wanted to build something that didn't quite fit the local rulebook, you had to prove "substantial hardship." Which, if you're a builder, probably felt like trying to explain quantum physics to a brick.
But now, thanks to a new budget amendment, the bar has been lowered. Instead of a hardship, you just need to show a "practical difficulty." It's like going from needing a doctor's note for a day off to just needing a slightly convincing cough. The goal? To finally get some more housing built.
Local officials will now consider the greater good, weighing the need for more homes against any potential downsides. Because apparently, that's where we are now: the housing crisis is significant enough that we're asking zoning boards to think big picture. And if your project does get the green light, that approval now lasts two years instead of one, giving builders a bit more breathing room.
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Start Your News DetoxThe state has been on a mission to reduce housing restrictions for a while now, and this is a pretty big swing. These changes also include extending zoning freezes for approved projects and letting local governments use email for public hearing notices. Because, shockingly, we live in the 21st century.
Governor Maura Healey's office is keen on these changes, stating they'll help hit housing targets while still letting towns have a say. Which is a delicate balance, considering the state wants to add a whopping 222,000 new homes by 2035. They’ve already clocked in nearly 35,000 new homes last year, hitting 15% of that goal. Let that satisfying number sink in. Now, if only they could make rush hour traffic a "practical difficulty" too.
