Vermont's housing crisis is, in part, a result of overly burdensome land use regulations. Providing timely and more certain permitting for residential construction should be the basis of our land use policies. VAR supports the release of commercial projects from Act 250 jurisdiction if the property is being converted to residential or mixed use.

VAR encourages policies that enhance consistent administration of Act 250 across the nine regional commissions and require review and approval of permits within predetermined timeframes.

The 10/5/5 definition in Act 250 restricts development by small builders who work in our villages and towns. VAR supports removal of this definition from the Act 250 statute.

VAR supports standardizing rules for municipal zoning to accomplish smart growth and infill development in city and village centers. Continued funding for municipal bylaw grants and simplification of the bylaw approval process to create Neighborhood Development Areas will spur housing development.