What are the required lot sizes, minimum yards (setbacks), and frontage required for new construction?
These requirements differ by zoning district (see Zoning Map). Please click here to see Dimensional Reqirements (excerpt of the Zoning Bylaw Section 4)
What zoning district is my property located in?
The Zoning Map is available online. Call the Planning Office at 508 892-7019 for questions about zoning district boundaries.
Large color copies of the Zoning Map are posted in several Town Offices, including the Planning Office, Town Clerk’s Office, Assessors Office, and the Building Inspector’s Office. Small black and white copies are available for sale in the Town Clerk's Office.
It is strongly recommended that you contact the Planning Office if the property in question is near a boundary between zoning districts. In such cases, please have an exact property address and/or Assessors map and parcel number
How long will review of my project take?
The time period for review of a particular project depends on the nature of the project and the legal advertisement and notification requirements. Typically, for applications requiring a public hearing, the hearing is scheduled 4 to 6 weeks after submittal of the application. Please contact the Planning Board office to discuss the specifics of your proposal and the estimated time line. Applications that are complete and comply with the requirements of the Zoning Bylaws and/or Subdivision Regulations will receive the fastest review.
Is my lot "buildable?"
This is often a more complicated question that it may seem at first glance. For example, a lot may comply with Leicester’s Zoning Bylaw (lot size, setbacks, etc.), but other issues, such as ability to put in a septic system or proximity to wetlands, may limit or prevent building on a lot. In most cases, development of a single-family house on an existing lot does not involve the Planning Office, but the Building Inspector’s Office.
Please feel free to contact the Planning Office regarding these issues. We will try to provide you with answers and/or refer you to the appropriate Department.
Is my property or use "grandfathered"?
This is a very complicated issue that must be addressed on a case-by-case basis. The relevant law regarding this issue is Mass. General Law Chapter 40A, Section 6. Contact the Building Inspector/Zoning Enforcement Officer at 508-892-7003 to discuss what documentation you must provide to show that your property is “grandfathered.” This is often not a straightforward determination. Please note that you may be advised to contact a land use attorney to help you document your case.
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