Special Residential Development (SRD)

A Special Residential Development (“SRD”) is a project in which one or more lots, tracts, or parcels of land are to be improved for use as a coordinated site for housing and for which deviations from the dimensional standards that apply to conventional developments are allowed in order to achieve a diversity of household types, sizes and affordability. Instead of determining density by dwelling type, minimum lot area, and frontage requirements, the total Gross Floor Area (GFA) of market-rate residential development for the tract as a whole is limited.

• The amount of development permitted in a Special Residential Development shall be based on a proof plan showing at least two lots fully complying with the provisions of this bylaw (other than this § 6.9 and § 6.12), the Planning Board’s Subdivision Regulations, and the criteria set forth in §135-6.9.6.
• Common Open Space Standards: Minimum common open space. At least 15% of the developable site area in a Special Residential Development shall be set aside as common open space.

Types of Special Residential Development. 

• Site Sensitive Development (SSD): A Special Residential Development in which the number of dwellings is limited as set forth in §135-6.9 so that existing site features such as natural grades, mature trees, stone walls, and historic structures may be retained. 
• Compact Neighborhood Development (CND): A Special Residential Development in which the size of the dwelling units is limited as set forth in §135-6.9

See full zoning and regulations.

All applications are now accepted electronically. Submit your project electronically on OpenGov. 

This application requires an abutters list application.

If you experience an issue or have a question regarding our new online application, please contact the Planning Office by email or call 781-698-4565.