Stamford, Conn., Code of Ordinances ch. 146 § 146-65
Purpose and intent
Operative Text
It is the purpose of this provision to promote the public health, safety and welfare by encouraging the expansion and upgrading of the City's housing stock while accommodating the expansion of housing and commercial opportunities in the City of Stamford; to provide for a full range of housing choices throughout the City for households of all incomes, ages and sizes in order to meet the City's goal of preserving diversity; to mitigate the impact of commercial development on the availability and cost of housing and particularly housing affordable to low and moderate income households; to increase the production of affordable housing units to meet existing and anticipated housing and employment needs within the City; to provide a mechanism by means of which commercial development can contribute in a direct and meaningful way to increase the supply of affordable housing in light of the influx of new employees in need of affordable housing brought about as a result of such commercial development, and to establish standards and guidelines for the use of such contributions from the application of inclusionary zoning provisions.
Section 146-65 of the Stamford Code of Ordinances sets out the overarching goals behind the city's inclusionary zoning framework. The provision establishes that Stamford aims to expand its housing stock, preserve community diversity across income levels and household types, and reduce the pressure that commercial development places on housing affordability. It also creates a formal link between commercial growth and the production of affordable housing, directing that contributions from commercial developers be used to increase the supply of units accessible to low- and moderate-income residents.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 146-65, property owners and developers operating in Stamford should understand that the city's inclusionary zoning program is grounded in explicit public-welfare goals, including expanding affordable housing and managing the housing impacts of commercial growth. Operators involved in commercial or mixed-use development are generally expected to engage with the contribution and compliance mechanisms that flow from this stated purpose. Familiarity with the standards and guidelines referenced in § 146-65 helps operators anticipate how subsequent provisions in Chapter 146 will be applied to their projects.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 146-65 reflects Stamford's formal commitment to maintaining a range of housing options for households of all incomes, ages, and sizes throughout the city. Tenants, particularly those seeking affordable housing, may find this provision relevant as background when navigating the city's inclusionary zoning rules, since it articulates the policy goals that the broader Chapter 146 framework is designed to serve. Those with questions about how these goals translate into specific rights or available units can reach out to local tenant-rights organizations or the city's housing office for general guidance.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 11, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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