Cape Cod Lawmakers Seek Clarity On MA Seasonal Community Designation

CAPE COD, MA — The Cape and Islands delegation is seeking clarity from the state on how to obtain a seasonal community designation.

Officials wrote a letter last week to the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) to issue clear guidance for municipalities seeking designation as “Seasonal Communities.” They are hoping to have that guidance by Dec. 31.

“Cape and Islanders face a housing crisis and need relief,” said Senator Dylan Fernandes. “Every town on Cape Cod is a seasonal community and they need guidance on how to achieve a 'Seasonal Community' designation to bring more housing options for local residents struggling to afford it here.”

The seasonal communities designation was established to recognize municipalities with significant fluctuations in population due to tourism. It plays a key role in determining eligibility for certain housing programs and state support, officials said.

They also laid out a few key elements that designation would provide for communities, including:

• Develop housing with a preference for municipal workers
• Acquire year-round housing occupancy restrictions
• Permit tiny homes to be built and used as year-round housing
• Increase the property tax exemption for homes that are the owners’ primary residence