LD1706

Clarify details of statewide ADU standards, and more time to comply

State: Maine

Status: Enacted ✅

Formal Title: An Act to Clarify Statewide Laws Regarding Affordable Housing and Accessory Dwelling Units

Summary: Amends Maine's housing laws to extend the implementation dates for affordable housing development requirements and accessory dwelling unit (ADU) permissions across municipalities. It defines 'affordable housing development' with specific income thresholds for rental and owned housing affordability. The act sets new implementation dates: January 1, 2024, for municipalities with ordinance enactment by municipal officers, and July 1, 2024, for others. It mandates municipalities to permit up to two additional dwelling units on lots with existing homes, subject to certain conditions, and ensures long-term affordability of such housing developments through restrictive covenants for a minimum of 30 years. The legislation also specifies zoning and subdivision requirements for ADUs, aiming to facilitate the addition of such units statewide while adhering to local and environmental regulations.

Main sponsors: Marc Malon

Legislative text: https://legislature.maine.gov/LawMakerWeb/summary.asp?ID=280088800