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Public Review Draft 2.0, Draft Zoning Map, and Supplementary Materials Now Available
April 2026
The updated draft reflects revisions needed to address recent state legislation, as well as comments received on the first public draft released in July 2025.
Two versions of the updated draft are available: a clean version of the code and a markup version showing changes made since the first public review draft. We’re also releasing an updated executive summary and documentation of public comments received on the first draft, and how they were proposed to be addressed, to help guide review.
The public comment period for Public Review Draft 2.0 and the Draft Zoning Map opens April 21 and will remain open through May 19.
We encourage everyone to review the updated materials and share your feedback with the project team.
Public Review Draft 2.0, Draft Zoning Map, and Supplementary Materials Now Available
April 2026
The updated draft reflects revisions needed to address recent state legislation, as well as comments received on the first public draft released in July 2025.
Two versions of the updated draft are available: a clean version of the code and a markup version showing changes made since the first public review draft. We’re also releasing an updated executive summary and documentation of public comments received on the first draft, and how they were proposed to be addressed, to help guide review.
The public comment period for Public Review Draft 2.0 and the Draft Zoning Map opens April 21 and will remain open through May 19.
We encourage everyone to review the updated materials and share your feedback with the project team.
Zoning regulates what structures and land are used for, where a structure may locate on a lot, and how big that structure can be. It also regulates other elements of site development, such as accessory structures, parking, and landscape. Zoning regulations are divided into zoning districts, so that use, bulk, setback, and development regulations are tailored to the character of each particular zoning district.
The Zoning Code Update is a comprehensive rewrite of the City’s land use regulations. It is designed to modernize outdated rules, align with the Comprehensive Plan, and make the code easier to understand and use.
The Community Development Committee secured grant funding from Maine Housing Authority to update Bath’s land use code to support more housing development in response to growing demand. A Contract was signed with Camiros consulting firm to lead the zoning code update. Initial city tour and public engagement conducted.
2024
Zoning Code Update has finished this stage
In the first half of 2024, the City completed the Technical Review and Approaches Report, ensuring it aligned with the goals of the 2023 Comprehensive Plan. The report was presented to City officials and stakeholders, earning widespread praise for its thoughtful and strategic approach. By summer, Camiros delivered the first draft of the updated zoning code to City staff, who—along with the Planning Board conducted a detailed review and provided comprehensive feedback.
Summer 2025
Zoning Code Update has finished this stage
Second draft of the zoning code released by Camiros, incorporating prior comments and city-led ordinances, with some decision points remaining. Planning & Development staff team reviewed decision points and finalized recommendations.
Current
Zoning Code Update is currently at this stage
Third, near-final draft produced. Planning staff tested the draft code on real-life proposals and found it functional and aligned with Bath’s current needs. City Planner states, “It now feels like what a Bath code should!”