The Planning Board’s most significant role is to administer and; from time to time, amend the Subdivision Rules and Regulations pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 41, Sections 81K-81GG.  As such, the Board is responsible for the review, approval and monitoring of construction of subdivisions through public hearings. The goal is to ensure that subdivisions are constructed in compliance with the Subdivision Rules and Regulations to meet the standards set forth in the regulations.  The Board also reviews proposed new lots and the alteration of existing lots through the Approval Not Required process delineated in M.G.L. Chapter 41, Section 81P. The Planning Board’s other significant role is to produce and administer the town’s Master Plan pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 41, Section 81D.  

The Planning Board is also involved in amendments to the Zoning Bylaws.  The Planning Board is responsible for conducting public hearings for all proposed Zoning Bylaw amendments pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 5.  The Board is also involved in the preparation of most Zoning Bylaw amendments.

The Planning Board is also the Special Permit granting authority and hold public hearings to consider the granting of Special Permits for the following types of projects:

• Accessory Apartments
• Assisted Living Facilities
• Common Driveways
• Earth Removal
• Flexible Developments
• Personal Wireless Service Facilities
• Aquifer Protection

The Planning Board is responsible for issuing Special Permits in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 40A.   It is the goal of the Board to strike a reasonable balance between the ability landowners possess to develop their property while trying to maintain the character of the Town of Douglas.