If you have heard rumors and/or are interested in learning more about a proposed zoning amendment call the Planning Board office 781-431-1019 ext. 230, 232 or 234; M - F 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Massachusetts General Law requires the Planning Board to hold a Public Hearing and make a report to the Town Meeting on all requests for Zoning Map amendments or Zoning Bylaw amendments.
The Annual Town Meeting Warrant often includes one or more proposed Zoning Map amendments. The staff meets with proponents of Zoning Map amendments to gather information concerning the proposal and to review the text of the Warrant Article. The staff reviews the maps, comparing the measurements, features and other information with Town Plans on file. The abutting property owners are identified.
Reports are prepared by the staff to inform the Planning Board and to assist in the preparation of the final recommendation to the Town Meeting. The relationship of the zoning proposal to the recommendations for that area as contained in the Comprehensive Plan is of particular concern to the staff in formulating its report. Working with citizen groups to explain the process and to refine the proposals is a time consuming staff function.
It should be noted that under state law, amendments to the Zoning Map may be requested by private property owners without involving the need for signatures as would be required for other petitions for articles for the Warrant. This has opened the process, making it easier for people to submit proposed amendments.
Zoning Amendment Process
Proposed changes to the Zoning Bylaw are discussed with the public at a Planning Board public zoning meeting in the fall and a Planning Board Public Hearing in the winter. A report to Town Meeting must be prepared for each amendment. The Zoning Bylaw text changes are frequently technical and complex.
After the adoption of a Zoning Bylaw amendment or Zoning Map amendment, there is close coordination with the Town Clerk to prepare the necessary documentation for review by the Attorney General.
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