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Zoning Toolkit
Sensible adjustments at the local level to zoning laws will facilitate the smart development of housing that Cape Cod’s workforce can afford, fueling the economic growth of our region.
These changes take into consideration the traffic and density concerns of the community, as well as the wastewater infrastructure and natural resources of the Cape. By analyzing and planning the rate of development, the proposed zoning changes facilitate the environmental and economical sustainability of the region.
Communities across the Cape are already taking action and developing innovative solutions to zoning constraints. Some of the proposed changes address:
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Accessory Apartments — Accessory apartments can be created by building living quarters into eligible single-family homes, developing additional housing options that Cape Cod workers can afford, filling a market demand. Some of the proposed zoning changes will bring many of the currently unpermitted accessory apartments into compliance, while others will help utilize, expand or convert existing structures to be eligible for accessory apartments.
- Secondary Dwellings — Zoning changes can facilitate the practical development of detached units on a lot, creating affordable rental opportunities for the workforce, year-round residents, and older adults. These secondary dwellings also provide the opportunity for the primary owner to generate extra income.
- Employee Dormitories — Finding housing that seasonal employees can afford is a growing challenge on the Cape. Zoning changes can help businesses leverage single- and two-family dwellings and mixed-use buildings for employee dormitories for seasonal residents.
- Building Conversions — Several of the proposed changes help property owners transform, reuse, or adapt existing structures into workforce housing. In many towns, derelict motels and hotels are particularly valuable targets and can be turned into multi-family units for low-income and working families. The bylaws address the social and economic realities of the communities, the goals of the property owners, and the needs of the occupants.
- Live/Work Units — By using buildings or spaces within buildings for both commercial and residential purposes, these innovative housing options create more diverse opportunities for the workforce and provide locations where new businesses can start. Adjusting zoning laws to allow for and/or encourage these housing options will stimulate the local economy both by maintaining the workforce and seeding entrepreneurial organizations.
- Zoning Districts — In many communities, zoning changes will allow for the creation of apartments that are affordable in both residential and commercial zoning districts.
- Proportionate Developments — Several towns have proposed changes that ensure a share of development is reserved for low-income and working families.
- Public-Private Partnerships — It is the shared responsibility of many Cape entities to facilitate the creation of more housing options for our workforce. Municipalities can be key partners and sponsors, and some of the proposed zoning changes allow for just that.
For more information on all proposed zoning changes and to find out what your town is doing, please click here.
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