Subdivision Definition Update

At a glance

What: Land Use Ordinance changes to match new state subdivision law: three or more dwelling units now counts as a subdivision under the definition, plus related district and notice changes.
Where it stands: Passed 7 to 0 on second read August 20, 2026, after first read August 6.
Next: In effect; the state-law compliance deadline cited in the text is July 1, 2027.

The Planning Board said the update is required by new state subdivision laws and should help developers and homeowners create housing, a 2026 Council goal.
Subdivision definition revised (five dwelling units changed to three in the strike-and-underline text), exemptions for gifts to relatives, municipalities, abutters and conservation holders reorganized, and a July 1, 2027 compliance date for conflicting definitions.
Rural Residential and Rural River 2 districts: dimensional requirements restated for minor subdivisions with no road and for major subdivisions.
Planning Board may apply manufactured-housing groundwater standards to major developments and subdivisions.
Conditional-use public hearings: held within 30 days of an application, mailed notice at least 10 days ahead, to owners within 500 feet (urban) or 1,000 feet (rural and planned development), 2,000 feet for major developments, major subdivisions, mineral extraction and shooting ranges.

Motion for passage by Councilor Lind, seconded by Councilor Judkins, 7 to 0 (Councilor Gary-Allen absent). No debate recorded.

Second read, passed 7 to 0.

First read, no vote required.