The Comprehensive Permit Statute under M.G.L. Chapter 40B Sections 20-23 was adopted in 1969 by the Massachusetts Legislature to “address the shortage of low- and moderate-income housing in Massachusetts and to reduce regulatory barriers that impeded the development of such housing.”
Subsequently, the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) issued 760 CMR 56.00, which “set forth comprehensive standards and procedures” governing Comprehensive Permits, addressed the Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI), and advanced the statutory purposes of M.G.L. Chapter 40B Sections 20-23 “by clarifying the procedures of the expedited review process, and by otherwise addressing recurring questions of interpretation.” Section 56.03 of 760 CMR defines the methods for measuring progress toward local housing goals.
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40B
What has become known as the 40B law consists of four sections of Massachusetts General Laws Part 1 Title VII Chapter 40B:
Section 20
Section 21
Section 22
Section 23
DHCD Chapter 40B Regulations
DHCD regulation 760 CMR 56.00 defines and guides the creation of affordable housing under Chapter 40B
Local Initiative Program
Local Initiative Program (LIP) is a state program that encourages the creation of affordable housing by providing technical assistance to communities and developers who are working together to create affordable rental opportunities.
40B Information & Resources
Provided by Citizens' Housing and Planning Association (CHAPA) CHAPA 40B Information
40B Design Review
The 40B Design Handbook is a result of a collaborative process of the four Massachusetts housing agencies that are authorized to review and approve site eligibility for Chapter 40B affordable housing developments.