City of Newton, MA
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What We Do
The Department of Planning & Development is responsible for overseeing and planning projects that enhance and preserve Newton’s unique character. Through projects, studies, community engagement, public meetings, and a host of other activities, Planning & Development staff work hard to improve the quality of life for all Newton residents and the experience of visitors to our great community. As a City with thirteen distinct villages, our department aims to develop plans that enhance each village with thoughtful consideration. The Department of Planning & Development also seeks to promote appropriate economic development and to support amenities that make Newton a desirable place to live, work, and spend time.
To view the City Ordinance on the Planning & Development Department, click here.
To view the current zoning ordinance, click here.
General responsibilities of the Department of Planning & Development include:
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Planning, developing, overseeing, and coordinating planning activities
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Providing support to boards, commissions, and committees
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Presenting plans and studies at public hearings and to boards, commissions, and committees
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Working closely with other departments to coordinate efforts
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Following City ordinances for all development projects
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Performing duties outlined by the Zoning and Planning committee
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Expanding participation throughout the planning process
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Coordinating with other municipal, state, and federal agencies, as well as private institutions on planning initiatives
Planning Application Process
All planning applications should be submitted through Newton’s NewGov portal. This includes zoning review, special permits, rezonings, administrative site plan review, variances, ZBA appeals, sign review, historic district review, demolition review, local landmark review, preservation restriction review, wetlands permitting, comprehensive permits, and fence appeals, along with building permits. Information about creating an account and applying can be found here: https://newtonma.portal.opengov.com/categories/1086
Affordable Housing
The Housing and Community Development Division of the Planning Department seeks to support Newton’s low- and moderate-income residents through a variety of different measures. Grants are provided to produce, preserve, and rehabilitate affordable housing units and staff continue to implement the Inclusionary Zoning policy and increase awareness of fair housing policies and practices. Additionally, grants are provided to nonprofits in the Newton area for human, homelessness prevention, and supportive services.
Hayward House ribbon cutting
Newton is committed to providing affordable housing options by
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Enforcing inclusionary zoning requirements for new developments;
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High % of affordable housing requirement
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First time homebuyer downpayment / closing cost assistance program
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Homeowner rehabilitation program
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Fair housing goals including a fair housing testing program as part of the WestMetro HOME Consortium
For information on affordable housing opportunities, contact Malcolm Lucas at mlucas@newtonma.gov and visit our affordable housing website.
Zoning Redesign
On December 4th, the Newton City Council passed major zoning changes for many of Newton’s village centers that will help support businesses, provide housing, and build community. This is the result of a nearly three year process that included engagement from thousands of Newton residents and community members, close coordination between the Planning Department and the City Council, and multiple iterations of the village center zoning ordinance and map.
The final ordinance reflects years of hard work and compromise. It sets Newton on the path to becoming a more welcoming, diverse, and vibrant community. Thank you to everyone who helped the City reach this point!
View the final ordinance and map here!
Find meeting dates, historic commission agendas, and Planning reports here!
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