Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The Planning Commission discussed potential amendments to zoning ordinances to preserve existing homes and reviewed a proposed ordinance change to allow raised garden beds in setbacks. The discussion on home preservation focused on the impact of Floor Area Ratio (FAR) reductions and the concept of a "large house review," while the raised bed proposal generated debate regarding its necessity and potential impact on property lines.
About this meeting
- Government Body
- Planning Commission
- Meeting Type
- Planning Commission
- Location
- Newton, MA
- Meeting Date
- April 13, 2026
Video will appear here as soon as Newton Planning Commission posts it — usually within a day of the meeting
Monday, April 13, 2026
2 items on the agenda.
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Start free trialRequest for discussion and possible amendments to enhance the preservation of existing homes
COUNCILORS BAKER, WRIGHT, OLIVER, MALAKIE, FARRELL, GETZ, and KALIS requesting a discussion and possible amendments to Chapter 30 Zoning or other City Ordinances to enhance the preservation of existing homes over their replacement by larger and more expensive structures. **Action:** Held 8-0 on 01/26/26 Held 8-0 on 02/23/26
Ordinance change in Chapter 30 to allow raised beds in the front and rear setback under certain conditions
COUNCILORS ALBRIGHT and KELLEY requesting a discussion and amendments to Chapter 30, Zoning to exempt raised beds 4- feet or less from the definition of a structure and allow them to be placed within the setback. (180 days: 07/19/2026) **Action:** Held 8-0 on 01/26/26