Barnstead Planning Board: Vote yes on 4 different zoning amendments in Barnstead

To The Daily Sun, 

On behalf of the Barnstead Planning Board, we encourage residents to review the four zoning ordinance amendments on the warrant for the March 2026 Town Election. These updates address accessory dwelling units (ADUs), short-term rentals (STRs), and minor housekeeping changes to keep our ordinance clear, consistent, and compliant with state law.

Question 1 aligns our ADU rules with RSA 674:71-73 (as amended by HB 577, 2025), allowing one ADU by right on single-family lots, with owner occupancy required. A yes vote supports family housing options while preserving neighborhood character; a no vote keeps stricter rules that may limit choices and conflict with state law.

Question 2 creates a permit system for STRs, requiring Planning Board approval, safety inspections, occupant/parking limits, and emergency postings. A yes vote adds oversight for safety and neighbor peace while permitting responsible rentals; a no vote leaves STRs unregulated, risking more disruptions.

Questions 3 and 4 are technical fixes: Clarifying allowable uses across all districts and updating the permitted uses table to match the ADU/STR changes. A yes vote ensures consistency and avoids confusion; a no vote may perpetuate inconsistencies.

These amendments were drafted thoughtfully to promote housing, safety, and our small-town feel. Full text is available at the Town Office or town website.

Nancy Carr

Tim Eade

David Kerr

Anthony Palmieri

Erin Stone

Andrew Sylvester

Priscilla Tiede

Brianna Weller

Barnstead