Zoning Code Amendments  | East Hampton Town, NY

The Zoning Code Amendment Workgroup was established by Resolution 2023-681 to guide and oversee necessary amendments to East Hampton’s zoning code. This workgroup is integral to adapting zoning laws to meet the evolving needs of the community while ensuring sustainable development, climate resilience, and preserving East Hampton’s unique character. The group’s work focuses on evaluating proposed zoning changes, examining related land use plans, and addressing critical issues such as affordable housing, environmental preservation, and commercial development.

Workgroup Members

The following individuals have been appointed to the Zoning Code Amendment Workgroup to ensure diverse expertise and community representation in the review and amendment of the zoning code:

• Marc Abramson, Assistant Environmental Protection Director
• Denise Savarese, Member, Zoning Board of Appeals
• Jaine Mehring, Member, Energy & Sustainability Committee
• John Whelan, former Chairperson of the ZBA, and the Suffolk County Planning Commission

Town Board Liaison:

Deputy Supervisor Cate Rogers

Key Documents

The workgroup’s decisions are grounded in a series of adopted town resolutions, research reports, and presentations. The following documents provide critical context and serve as a foundation for the zoning code amendment process:

1. Town Adopted Plans and Resolutions

2. Research

   The workgroup’s research includes studies and surveys that influence zoning decisions, particularly on environmental and land use matters:

   • 2024 USG Eastern Long Island Groundwater Survey: This study examines groundwater conditions in East Hampton and highlights key areas for zoning adjustments, particularly in relation to water quality, conservation, and sustainable development.
   • Gross Floor Area (GFA) Formula Update: The workgroup has been reviewing proposals to amend the zoning code concerning the calculation of Gross Floor Area (GFA). A more balanced GFA formula is essential to manage building density and ensure that development aligns with community and environmental goals.
   • Research on Below-Grade Living Spaces: This document provides insights into how below-grade spaces, such as basements, are treated within zoning regulations, helping the workgroup to consider necessary amendments.
      

3. Business Group Correspondence

   The workgroup regularly engages with local business groups to ensure zoning amendments align with the needs of the commercial sector while also maintaining community priorities. Key communications include:

   • Letter from Business Group: A comprehensive correspondence document outlining the workgroup’s discussions with business leaders on zoning amendments. This includes proposals that aim to balance commercial development with residential and environmental concerns.
      

4. Presentations & Updates

The Zoning Code Amendment Workgroup presents regular updates to the Town Board and the public. The following presentations detail the progress of the workgroup’s efforts and proposed changes to zoning codes:

• Zoning Code Amendments Workgroup Update (July 16, 2024): This presentation covers the progress of the workgroup, including key recommendations and updates on ongoing amendments. It emphasizes the workgroup’s commitment to climate resilience, affordable housing, and sustainable development.
• Gross Floor Area (GFA) Formula Recommendation (December 3, 2024): A proposed update to the GFA formula to regulate building size and ensure that construction remains consistent with community values.
• Draft Zoning Code Amendments Update (September 10, 2024): This document summarizes the proposed amendments to the zoning code, including specific sections under review and the rationale behind changes.
• Zoning Code Amendments Workgroup Recommendations (May 7, 2024): A summary of the workgroup’s findings and recommendations for the final zoning code updates.
• GFA Formula Discussion Continuation (January 21, 2025): This presentation details the basis for the ZCAWG GFA formula recommendation and the impacts of the short-term rental market.  
• Small Lots By Hamlet (February, 2025 ): Analysis of lot size by hamlet in the Town of East Hampton 

Public Input & Engagement

The workgroup encourages public participation and values community input throughout the amendment process. As part of our commitment to transparency and inclusivity, we invite residents to attend public hearings, participate in feedback sessions, and review proposed changes.