Impact of Housing Regulations

Local land use regulations in New Hampshire have significantly restricted residential housing development, contributing to a housing crisis. In the 1970s and 1980s, annual building permits exceeded 10,000, but regulations aimed at limiting population growth have diminished these numbers to about 3,000 currently. This drastic reduction has resulted in a shortage of housing options for residents wishing to move to New Hampshire, particularly those fleeing higher taxes in neighboring states. Consequently, towns have created barriers against the construction of diverse housing types, siding instead with regulations that stifle growth and maintain the status quo.