SWAMPSCOTT — In preparation for the 2025 Annual Town Meeting, the Planning Board discussed amendments to the Zoning Bylaw and the possible impact it could have on the town.
During the meeting, the board discussed several elements of the bylaw. According to Land Use and Development Planner Marissa Meaney, the board focused its aim on three potential changes to the bylaw. One key area of discussion for the board was modification of the Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) bylaw, in order to meet criteria established by the state.
An ADU is a self-contained housing unit inclusive of sleeping, cooking and sanitary facilities located on the same property of a single-family home (such as an in-law apartment or converted garage in which someone lives or rents the space).
Vice Chair of the board Joseph Sheridan, who acted as Chair during the meeting due to the absence of Chair Edward Dooley, shared his perspective on the matter. “It’s my take that the state’s requiring what it’s requiring, and we should reflect the bylaw to reflect that,” he said.
It was noted during the meeting that a certain set of requirements must be met in order to comply with state regulations. The ADU can’t have separate utilities, like water or electricity. The homeowner of the single-family house must live on the property. Another highlight was that there can be no reduction in the amount of the previously-existing area or removal of trees on the property.
“My big concern about ADUs in particular is firetruck access,” Board member Angela Ippolito said.
The board also looked at the amending of Site Plan Permit square footage criteria. Meaney noted that the board is looking to remove the 3,000 threshold for new construction, which would subject all new construction (including demolition and reconstruction) to a Site Plan Special Permit hearing.
Another element of consideration for the board was updating the Coastal Flood Overlay District (CFAOD) bylaws to comply with new regulations issued by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
According to Meaney, one part of the zoning bylaw (section 4.2.0.0.) regulates the Coastal Flood Overlay District, consisting of properties identified on FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program maps. Meaney said those properties will be further subject to additional zoning and building restrictions.
The board will be continuing their discussion in future meetings.
