Towns and the state could not demand private property rules outside workforce housing

Towns and the state would be barred from requiring or encouraging covenants as a condition for zoning or land use approval. Covenants are private rules tied to property; the limit covers zoning and other land use approvals. Covenants that town officials require or encourage as an approval condition would be invalid. Workforce housing developments are exempt. This limit would take effect 60 days after passage.

Towns could pass local laws allowing them to enforce private covenants. The option covers covenants made by past landowners or homeowners' associations. The covenants must still be valid under current law. This section would not apply to workforce housing developments. This option would begin 60 days after passage.