Town of Windham Zoning Regulations Summary
On June 11, 2026 the Windham Town Board adopted its first ever Zoning Law. Zoning is a tool that is commonly used by communities to regulate the built specific regulations that govern the type and intensity of future developments that can occur within each zone.
Question: When does the Zoning Law take effect?
Answer: The new law took effect on August 1, 2026.
Question: How do I find out what Zoning District my property is in?
Answer: An online version of the zoning map can be found on the Town’s website. It enables you to zoom in and turn different layers of information (like water and sewer districts) on or off. A large format printed map is also available for viewing at the Town Clerk’s office and the Building Department.
Question: What if I have a project that is currently under review by the Planning Board?
Answer: Applications for subdivision and site plan approval submitted to or approved by the Planning Board prior to December 11, 2025 (the date the Town Board accepted the Final Report prepared by the Zoning Commission) will be subject to the laws in place at the time of application. All other pending applications will be reviewed by the Zoning Enforcement Officer who will determine whether the Applicant has developed a substantial right to proceed under the prior laws on a case-by-case basis.
Question: What if my property or my building doesn’t conform with the new Zoning Law?
Answer: There are provisions in the Zoning Law designed to address “pre-existing non-conformities” and in most cases they will be “grandfathered” and permitted to continue. For example, pre existing lots that don’t meet the minimum lot size regulations can still be built upon providing the appropriate setback requirements are met.
Non-conforming uses are able to continue operating but they can’t be enlarged, expanded or increased without prior approval by the Planning Board. Likewise, special permits won’t be required for any existing use that remains in continuous operation.
Have any questions about zoning regulations?
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