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HB 1065

relative to multi-family and mixed-use development in commercially zoned areas.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jim Maggiore and 2 co-sponsors

New Hampshire bill allowing multi-family and mixed-use residential development in commercially zoned areas to increase housing supply and development flexibility.

Inexpedient to Legislate: MA VV 02/19/2026 HJ 5 P. 22
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Bill Summary · HB 1065

Legislative bill overview

HB 1065 appears to modify zoning regulations in New Hampshire to facilitate multi-family residential and mixed-use development projects in areas already designated for commercial use. The bill has been referred to the Housing committee and is scheduled for introduction in January 2026, suggesting it addresses housing supply or development flexibility concerns.

Why is this important

Housing affordability and availability are significant issues in New Hampshire, with limited multi-family units in many communities. Streamlining development in commercially zoned areas could increase housing options without requiring new residential zoning designations, potentially reducing development timelines and costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. state mandates: Communities may resist state-level changes that limit their zoning authority or require them to permit uses they haven't approved locally
  • Infrastructure capacity: Mixed-use and multi-family projects could strain existing utilities, parking, roads, and services in commercial districts not originally planned for residential density
  • Character and compatibility concerns: Neighbors and business owners may worry about impacts on commercial district aesthetics, parking availability, traffic patterns, and business operations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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