Have you ever thought about adding a backyard cottage, converting your garage into an apartment, or making space for an aging parent or grown child — but didn't know where to start? You're not alone, and help is on the way.
Essex Junction is one of several Chittenden County communities participating in the Infill Housing Campaign, a regional initiative run by the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission (CCRPC) that helps everyday homeowners become small-scale housing developers. The campaign covers everything from zoning and permitting to financing and construction planning — in plain language, for regular people.
And here's something worth knowing: like other Vermont communities served by municipal water and sewer services, Essex Junction now allows up to four units per lot on residential properties. That means if you have the space and the will to make it work, the rules are more flexible than many residents realize.
The first in a series of free workshops — "How to Build a Home in Your Back Yard" — takes place Saturday, May 16, from 9 to 11 a.m. at Burlington City Arts, 135 Church St., Burlington (2nd floor). The event features a panel of homeowners who have already been through the process and are ready to share what they learned. A second workshop is planned for Monday, June 22, at 5 p.m. in South Burlington, with more events to follow.
Whether you're thinking about earning rental income, housing a family member, or simply making better use of your lot, this workshop series is designed for you. Attendance is free.
Register and learn more at www.ccrpcvt.org/infill-housing