Planning Initiatives

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

Worcester has adopted zoning provisions to allow Accessory Dwelling Units ADUs as of January 9, 2024!

At their December 12, 2023 meeting, the Worcester City Council voted to advertise the proposed zoning ordinance amendment; the amendment was approved as of January 9, 2024.

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Elm Park LHD

At their September 26, 2023 meeting, upon the recommendation of the Worcester Historical Commission, the Worcester City Council voted unanimously to ordain the Elm Park Neighborhood Local Historic District. The vote followed a two-and-a-half year long study of the area as prescribed by MGL Chapter 40C, which included historical research, photography and an open dialog with neighborhood residents, property owners and the public at large.

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Forest Health Assessment

In 2024, the City of Worcester conducted a Forest Health Assessment for properties under the custody of the Conservation Commission, with funding from the Massachusetts DCR Urban & Community Forestry Challenge Grant program. As part of this project, an aerial Urban Tree Canopy (UTC) Assessment was performed for over 800 acres of City-owned conservation land.

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Worcester Now | Worcester Next Citywide Plan

The City of Worcester is developing a citywide long-range plan (aka Master Plan) in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 41 section 81D. Worcester Now | Next does not replace other planning efforts, but instead will build upon and coordinate such planning efforts by establishing a common planning framework. The final Worcester Now | Next plan will help guide decisions regarding policies, regulations, programs, infrastructure and other aspects related to the physical development of the community. Learn more about Worcester Now | Worcester Next plan.

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Temporary Outdoor Dining Program

To provide safer dining options for residents and support the restaurant community during the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Worcester has implemented a Temporary Outdoor Dining Program. The Temporary Outdoor Dining program establishes an expedited permitting process through which restaurants are able to offer expanded outdoor dining options.

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Marijuana Regulations

Information concerning municipal regulation of marijuana-related uses, in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws.

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Local Historic District Preliminary Study Reports

The Worcester Historical Commission, under MGL Chapter 40C, has voted to study the possible creation of a local historic district (LHD) for each of the following properties and neighborhoods:

  • Ransom C. Taylor Estate - 36 Butler Street
  • Liberty Farm - 116 Mower Street
  • Robert Hutchings Goddard Birthplace - 1 Tallawanda Drive
  • Hammond Heights Neighborhood

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Contact Information

Planning & Regulatory Services
City Hall Room 404
455 Main Street
Worcester, MA 01608

Accessible via WRTA Bus Line. View Schedules

Phone: 508-799-1400
Fax: 508-799-1406
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Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

City of Worcester
Worcester 311
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Phone: 311
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