Frequently Asked Questions

  • Zoning regulates what structures and land are used for, where a structure may locate on a lot, and how big that structure can be. It also regulates other elements of site development, such as accessory structures, parking, and landscape. Zoning regulations are divided into zoning districts, so that use, bulk, setback, and development regulations are tailored to the character of each particular zoning district.

  • The Zoning Code Update is a comprehensive rewrite of the City’s land use regulations. It is designed to modernize outdated rules, align with the Comprehensive Plan, and make the code easier to understand and use.

  • The current code no longer reflects how Bath has developed or how the community wants to grow. The update will:

    • Support housing and economic development

    • Improve walkability and neighborhood vitality

    • Modernize outdated rules and processes

    • Bring the City into compliance with recent state laws

  • Key changes include:

    • More housing types and flexibility

    • Mixed-use development (allowing residential and small-scale commercial closer together)

    • Elimination of minimum parking requirements

    • Simplified and more user-friendly regulations

    • Better alignment with existing neighborhood patterns

  • In general, the new code will be more permissive, making it easier to:

    • Build on smaller lots

    • Add units or expand existing structures

    • Use properties in more flexible ways

    Some areas will also see clearer standards, such as a new downtown height limit.

  • The update supports more housing by:

    • Allowing a wider range of housing types

    • Enabling conversion of large homes into multiple units

    • Increasing density where infrastructure exists

    • Removing barriers like excessive parking requirements

  • The City is eliminating minimum parking requirements so that property owners can decide how much parking is appropriate.

    This helps:

    • Reduce housing and development costs

    • Improve building design and walkability

    • Avoid unnecessary pavement and environmental impacts

  • Buildings and site features that were legally established will remain legal. The update is intended to reduce nonconformity, not create it.

  • The project began in 2022 and is now in its Second Public Draft (2026). Residents can:

👉 Looking for more detail? See the Extended FAQ below

Extended FAQ

Why not just revise the existing code?

Because the changes are extensive, the City reorganized the code into a clearer, modern format rather than marking up an outdated structure. This allows for better usability and consistency.

What problems is the update trying to fix?

  • Mismatch between zoning rules and existing neighborhoods

  • Overuse of contract zoning

  • Separation of uses that limits walkability

  • Outdated administrative requirements

  • Barriers to housing and redevelopment

What is mixed-use zoning and why does it matter?

Mixed-use zoning allows residential, commercial, and other uses to exist closer together. This supports:

  • Walkable neighborhoods

  • Local businesses

  • Reduced reliance on cars

  • More vibrant community spaces

Will eliminating parking minimums cause parking problems?

Not necessarily. Parking demand varies by use and location. The new approach allows:

  • Right-sized parking

  • Shared parking arrangements

  • More efficient land use

Parking will still be built where needed.

How does the update support economic development?

  • Simplifies business approvals

  • Reduces need for rezoning

  • Allows more flexible use categories

  • Encourages redevelopment and reuse of properties

This helps businesses start, grow, and adapt more easily.

What changes affect historic areas?

Updates to the Historic Overlay District:

  • Clarify rules and processes

  • Encourage preservation and maintenance

  • Introduce a demolition delay process

  • Reduce unnecessary barriers to improvements

The goal is to preserve historic character while allowing reasonable flexibility.

How does the update address climate and sustainability?

The code includes:

  • Stormwater and landscaping standards

  • Reduced impervious surfaces

  • Support for solar energy and EV infrastructure

  • Improved flood resilience

  • Encouragement of compact, walkable development

What has the public process been like?

  • Started in 2022 with grant funding

  • Stakeholder interviews and technical analysis

  • Multiple draft versions

  • Public comment periods and open houses

  • ~20 Planning Board workshops

This has been a multi-year, highly collaborative process.

Is the zoning code final?

No.
The current version is a draft. Additional revisions may occur before adoption.

Will the code be updated again in the future?

Yes.
The zoning code is a living document and will continue to evolve as community needs and best practices change.