New Development District Included In Medford's Zoning Proposal

MEDFORD, MA — A new zoning district designed to promote a "flexible process for innovative proposals" is among the proposed amendments to Medford's zoning ordinance.

The Community Development Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, Nov. 18 at 6 p.m. on the proposed ordinance, which changes the existing ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units – a standalone home on the property separate from the main house – more detailed business types, new performance standards and new definitions, including for large and small daycares.

The new zoning district, called a Planned Development District, would pave the way for proposals that specify a "mixture of commercial, industrial, residential, open space or other uses," according to the proposed ordinance. There are two types of Planned Development Districts – one that is primarily commercial, industrial and used for other non-residential purposes and another that is primarily residential or combines with non-residential uses.

Thursday's meeting will be held over Zoom and broadcast live on Medford Community Media.

Access the public hearing notice and Zoom information here. For questions, you can reach the Office of Planning, Development, & Sustainability at ocd@medford-ma.gov or 781-393-2480.

To learn more about the proposed ordinance draft, refer to the documents listed below:

1. Summary of Amendments: This guide summarizes significant changes to the ordinance and is organized by ordinance section. Review to identify areas that might be of interest to you!
2. Table of Contents for the Proposed Ordinance
3. Draft Proposed Ordinance*: This is a full draft document of the proposed ordinance.
4. Use Table
5. Dimensional Table