Article 54: To see if the Town will vote to amend Part 7 of the Northborough Town Code, the Northborough Zoning Bylaw Section 7-09-020C.(4) by deleting the text shown with strike-through, or take any action relative thereto.
(1) Open space. The following standards shall apply to the minimum open space required under Section 7-06-020 and to areas used to satisfy the minimum landscaped buffer requirements identified in Subsection C(5) of this section.
(a) Open space areas shall be kept free of encroachment by all buildings, structures, storage areas, parking and interior driveways, except for a driveway to gain access from the street.
Explanation: This article amends the Zoning Bylaw by revising the open space requirements associated with site development. Specifically, the amendment removes language that restricts certain encroachments within required open space areas, including limitations related to driveways. The intent of this change is to provide greater flexibility in site design while maintaining the overall purpose of open space and landscaped buffer requirements. This revision allows for more practical layout of access and circulation while still preserving appropriate open space within developments.
Votes Needed to Pass: 2/3 Majority
Relevant Discussion for This Article
Planning Board Public Hearing: February 17, 2026 (Minutes)
Planning Board Public Hearing Continued: March 17, 2026 (Minutes)
Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Board Joint Meeting: November 18, 2025 (Minutes)
Presentation to Select Board by Planning Board Chair Amy Poretsky: April 9, 2026