New Standards Apply To Homes Larger Than 4,000 Square Feet
Download the full text of the City’s new “McMansion” law.
Download the table of dimensional regulations.
The City Council this week unanimously adopted a new policy of architectural review for single family homes undergoing new construction or substantial renovation, resulting in a total square footage greater than 4,000. The new standards do not prohibit such construction, but rather require that plans be reviewed by a panel of architects and then subject to approval by the Planning Board. Our intent is a flexible and balanced process that encourages respect for neighborhood scale and context, without erecting significant barriers to beneficial investment and renovation. The City will carefully monitor the practical effects of this new policy and make modifications if deemed appropriate. Council Member Barry Fertel deserves great credit for spearheading this initiative.