Planning & Regulatory Services

Michelle M. Smith, Assistant Chief Development Officer

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Public Notice

The License Commission has moved to Inspectional Services as of July 2023. The new office location can be found within the Food Protection Program, which is on the second floor at 25 Meade Street.

About Us

The Division of Planning & Regulatory Services (DPRS) works in coordination with other divisions of the Executive Office of Economic Development as well as other City Departments to support and guide the future development of the city. DPRS’s work related to current planning includes providing administrative support and professional services to the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, Historical Commission and Conservation Commission to support their review of projects that fall under their purview.

DPRS conducts research and provides data analysis to develop programmatic and policy recommendations, and participates in the development of planning studies and plans of various types. DPRS also works with developers, homeowners, businesses and others on issues relating to land use, development, zoning, historic preservation, and transportation among other topics.

Top Services

Application Deadline & Meeting Schedule

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Join a Board or Commission

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Zoning Ordinance & Map

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Pre Development Consultations

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Boards & Commissions

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Conservation Commission
Conservation Commission responsibilities include administering wetlands protection regulations and making recommendations on the planning, acquisition and management of property for conservation and passive recreation.

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Historical Commission
The Historical Commission preserves, promotes and develops the historic assets of the City. The Commission reviews alterations proposed to properties that are located in local historic districts and administers the City's Building Demolition Delay Ordinance.

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Planning Board
The Planning Board's responsibilities include reviewing site plans, parking plans and subdivision plans; proposing and making recommendations regarding zoning ordinance changes; and supporting long-range planning initiatives.

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Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals is charged with exercising judgement in considering when to allow discretionary uses or grant exceptions from certain zoning regulations, through special permits or variances, and to hear appeals of decisions by the Building Commissioner.