Special Projects

Regulations have been promulgated for the following specific types of projects or features:

Signs

Construction of signs is regulated by the MA State Building Code and the Town’s Zoning Bylaw, Section 22A (PDF). The Sign Bylaw sets forth several allowances for each sign type per zoning district. Included in these allowances are number of signs, location, maximum size of all permanent signage and individual signage, maximum letter size, maximum height, and illumination. A sign that meets the allowances is considered "by right". A sign that exceeds the allowances requires a special permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals. All signs requiring a permit are reviewed by the Design Review Board. For regulations by district, visualizations of permitted and prohibited design elements, and application instructions, please refer to the Planning Department’s Signage Guide for Business Owners and Contractors (PDF).

Swimming Pools

Construction of all swimming pools and spas is regulated by the MA State Building Code and Zoning Bylaw, Section 22B (PDF). All residential and commercial swimming pools and spas require submission of a Certified Plot Plan and the issuance of a Building Permit. Additional guidance may be found on the Building Department’s Swimming Pool Permitting Checklist (PDF) and list of Inspection Requirements (PDF).

Antennas

Construction of antennas and accessory telecommunications structures are regulated by the MA State Building Code and Zoning Bylaw, Section 22C (PDF). While certain devices may be constructed by-right (subject to the issuance of a building permit), most require review by the Design Review Board (DRB), and in some case a Special Permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). For more information, please see the DRB’s Application for Design Review (PDF) and the ZBA’s Application for Antenna Special Permit (PDF).

Retaining Walls

Construction of retaining walls is regulated by the Town’s Zoning Bylaw, Section 22D. All walls that retain more than four (4) feet of unbalanced fill and certain terraced walls require a permit from the Town of Wellesley Building Department. Walls that retain seven (7) feet or more require additional review by the Design Review Board. In some cases, depending on the setback and/or height of a wall, a special permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals may also be necessary. For additional guidance, please see the Building Department’s list of Requirements for Retaining Wall Permits (PDF) and the DRB’s Application for Review of Retaining Walls (PDF).