Stamford, CT Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Density Bonus Law (2026)
Key Facts
- Bonus cap
- 22 units/acre
- Minimum lot size
- 30,000 sq ft
- Approval needed
- Zoning Board Special Permit
- Condition
- On-site BMR units required
- District
- R-5 Multi-Family Design District
Summary
Stamford's R-5 Multi-Family district allows a premium density bonus of up to 22 dwelling units per acre on lots of 30,000 square feet or more, but only with Zoning Board Special Permit approval and on-site affordable housing.
Below Market-Rate Housing shall be provided pursuant to Section 7. of these Regulations. A premium Density bonus not to exceed 22 Dwelling Units per acre on Lots with an area of 30,000 square feet or more may be permitted with Zoning Board approval by Special Permit, if all required BMR Units, except for fractional units, are provided on-site. (220-13)
Full Breakdown
In the R-5 Multi-Family, Medium Density Design District, the Zoning Board may grant a Special Permit raising density to a premium bonus of up to 22 dwelling units per acre on lots of 30,000 square feet or more. The trade-off is mandatory: all required Below Market-Rate units under Section 7 of the Regulations must be built on-site, with only fractional units excused. Lots using this bonus can also get relief on open space and building coverage. Stamford separately sits under Connecticut's § 8-30g affordable-housing appeals statute, which lets developers challenge zoning denials in municipalities below the state's 10% affordable-housing threshold.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the district's base density cap without an approved Special Permit, or without providing the required on-site BMR units, is a zoning violation enforceable by the Building Inspector/Zoning Enforcement Officer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much of a density bonus can a Stamford R-5 project get?
Do I have to build the affordable units on-site to use the bonus?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Stamford
Compare Stamford to another location·View the Connecticut zoning overlays & bonuses overview
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