Legislative Tracking
The First Session of the 132nd Maine State Legislature adjourned in June. As with other recent sessions, we have seen an increase in land use and planning related legislation that have implications for local zoning and regulations. This fall, we will be developing technical assistance materials to support communities in understanding and adapting to new changes in state statute. Visit this page to find updates about our efforts, and opportunities for getting involved.
Key Legislative Changes
Below are four new laws enacted in this most recent legislative session that have direct impacts on local zoning ordinances. Some are more complicated than others, and these will be the focus of our future webinars and technical assistance materials.
- L.D. 1829 An Act to Build Housing for Maine Families and Attract Workers to Maine Businesses by Amending the Laws Governing Housing Density
- This "omnibus" bill includes several requirements regarding housing density allowances, accessory dwelling units, growth caps, and more. It requires that municipalities bring their local ordinances into compliance by deadlines dependent on your form of government.
- L.D. 427 An Act to Regulate Municipal Parking Space Minimums
- This new statute limits municipal parking requirements to one spot per dwelling unit.
- L.D. 997 An Act to Allow Residential Use Development in Commercial Districts
- As it's title suggests, this bill requires ordinances to allow residential use in areas currently zoned for commercial use.
Resources and Opportunities
- The state has released draft rulemaking for LD 1829, LD 997, and LD 427, and the public comment period is now closed. Proposed Rule is Available Here. Visit the Housing Opportunity Program page for more information.
- On the right, see details for our webinar "Planning Legislation: LD1829 & More", on October 28th, 2025.
- On the right, see our Bill Factsheets. These short and sweet factsheets detail all the important takeaways from each bill, as well as providing helpful steps to implementation. Feel free to print or share with boards, committees, or the public.
Other Bills of Note
Below is a table of some bills proposed in the session that are relevant to municipal planning and land use. We will continue to update this as we learn more.