General Laws of Massachusetts (Last Updated: January 16, 2020) |
PART I ADMINISTRATION OF THE GOVERNMENT |
TITLE VII. CITIES, TOWNS AND DISTRICTS |
CHAPTER 40R. SMART GROWTH ZONING AND HOUSING PRODUCTION |
SECTION 1. Purpose
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It is the purpose of this chapter to encourage smart growth and increased housing production in Massachusetts. Smart growth is a principle of land development that emphasizes mixing land uses, increases the availability of affordable housing by creating a range of housing opportunities in neighborhoods, takes advantage of compact design, fosters distinctive and attractive communities, preserves open space, farmland, natural beauty and critical environmental areas, strengthens existing communities, provides a variety of transportation choices, makes development decisions predictable, fair and cost effective and encourages community and stakeholder collaboration in development decisions.