Windham Zoning Overview

Windham is a town in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, with a population of approximately 15,780 (2020 Census). Located in southern New Hampshire, Windham is primarily a residential community. Land use and development are regulated through the town's zoning ordinance, administered by the Windham Planning Department.

Windham's zoning ordinance divides the town into several districts, including two residential zones, a commercial zone, and an industrial zone. The RA district requires a 2-acre minimum lot size, while the RB district requires 1 acre.

Key Zoning Districts

Windham's primary residential zoning districts include:

• RA (Residential A) — Minimum 2 acre lots with 50 ft front, 30 ft side, and 30 ft rear setbacks. Maximum height of 35 ft.
• RB (Residential B) — Minimum 1 acre lots with 40 ft front, 25 ft side, and 25 ft rear setbacks. Maximum height of 35 ft.

Other districts include:

• C (Commercial) — Commercial district for retail, office, and service uses
• I (Industrial) — Manufacturing, warehousing, and related industrial uses

ADU Regulations (Accessory Dwelling Units)

New Hampshire state law (RSA 674:72-73) requires all municipalities to allow ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) as a matter of right on any property with a single-family dwelling. Windham must comply with this state mandate. Key points:

• One ADU is permitted per single-family lot
• The ADU may be attached to or detached from the primary dwelling (subject to local standards)
• Municipalities cannot prohibit ADUs but may adopt reasonable regulations regarding size, parking, and other dimensional standards
• Contact the Windham Planning Department for the town's specific ADU application requirements and any local dimensional standards

Building Code

Windham follows the NH State Building Code (RSA 155-A), which is based on the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC). All construction must comply with the state building code.

Development Process

Development in Windham generally requires obtaining the appropriate permits from the town's planning and building departments. The process typically involves:

1. Zoning Verification — Confirm that your proposed use is permitted in the applicable zoning district
2. Site Plan Review — For commercial, multi-family, and certain other projects, submit a site plan to the Planning Board
3. Building Permit — Apply for a building permit with construction documents
4. Inspections — Schedule required inspections during construction
5. Certificate of Occupancy — Obtain final approval before occupying the structure

For projects that do not conform to existing zoning, property owners may need to seek a variance or special exception from the Windham Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA).

Key Considerations

Before starting any development project in Windham, property owners should:

• Verify the zoning classification of their property
• Review setback, height, and lot coverage requirements for the applicable district
• Check for any overlay districts or special regulations
• Determine if the property is in a flood zone using FEMA's flood map service
• Confirm whether HOA covenants or deed restrictions apply
• Contact the Windham Planning Department at (603) 432-7732 for pre-application guidance

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in Windham, NH and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the Windham Planning Department before making development decisions.