Removing barriers to all types of housing creation at all income levels is one our primary policy perspectives here at the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce which is why to welcome the opportunity to provide a platform for Legalize Starter Homes. 
 
 Legalize Starter Homes, a campaign launched in July 2025 to support a 2026 ballot question that would allow single-family homes to be built in any residentially-zoned area as long as the lot has at least 5,000 square feet, at least 50 feet of land bordering the street, and access to public sewer and water services.
 
Because land is so expensive in much of Massachusetts, allowing homes on smaller lots will reduce the cost of homes for buyers and will make it so that developers don’t have to build giant McMansions just to justify the cost of assembling the land. Thus, legalizing starter homes in Massachusetts will result in smaller homes, more affordable homes, and more homes in general.
 
This ballot question was carefully written based on existing state law, evidence from other states that this reform works, and compelling academic studies that large minimum lot size requirements in Massachusetts make homes more expensive and scarce. If this ballot question is successful, it would be nothing less than a far-reaching expansion of opportunity for a new generation of homeowners to thrive in Massachusetts.
 
With us to discuss the plan in more detail is Andrew Mikula, Senior Housing Fellow at Pioneer Institute.  Specializing in housing policy and economic development, his research areas of interest include housing affordability, regulatory reform, and urban planning.
 
 Andrew holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Bates College and a master’s degree in urban planning from the Harvard Graduate School of Design. His work advocates for market-driven solutions to increase housing supply, emphasizing reforms such as streamlined permitting and more flexible zoning to encourage development and address systemic barriers to affordability.