City of Watertown - Land Uses

Accessory structure, residential

ACCESSORY
Accessory building/structure: a building or structure devoted exclusively to a use accessory to the principal use of the lot.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use is allowed: CB, CR, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB, NB, R.75, R1.2, S-10, S-6, SC, T Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit: PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Development Requirements:
Private greenhouse, tool shed, swimming pool and kennel not used as a part of a business, and not offensive to the neighborhood by reason of noise, odor or other cause.

See § 4.03: Accessory uses for more information.

Accessory uses, multifamily

ACCESSORY USE
Accessory use: a use incident to, and on the same lot as, a principal use, including telecommunication and communication facilities used exclusively for the private residence or business and not as an independent commercial enterprise.

Accessory uses, scientific research

ACCESSORY USE
Accessory use: a use incident to, and on the same lot as, a principal use, including telecommunication and communication facilities used exclusively for the private residence or business and not as an independent commercial enterprise.

Adult stores

An establishment that has a substantial or significant portion of its stock in trade, books, magazines and other matter or paraphernalia which are distinguished or characterized by their emphasis depicting, describing, or relating to sexual conduct or sexual excitement, as defined in M.G.L. c. 272, § 31.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit: I-1, I-2, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for detailed information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Adult stores and adult theaters, as defined in § 2.00 may be allowed by special permit subject to the following findings and conditions, and to such additional terms and conditions as the Board of Appeals may impose:

(a) No merchandise or services prohibited as obscene and indecent not encompassed by the definition adult stores and theaters shall be disseminated or available therein.
(b) The permitted uses specifically exclude disseminating or offering to disseminate adult matter to minors, and suffering minors to view the displays or linger in the store shall be deemed evidence of violation of this section.
(c) No adult store or theater shall be located within the same block or 500 feet of a residential zone, dwelling house, school, place of worship, church, park, playground, youth center or of another adult store.
(d) Parking requirements for adult stores and theaters shall comply with Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements of said Zoning Ordinance.

Adult theaters

An enclosed building used for presenting material or live entertainment distinguished by an emphasis on matter depicting, describing, or relating to sexual conduct or sexual excitement as defined in M.G.L. c. 272, § 31.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit: I-1, I-2, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for detailed information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Adult stores and adult theaters, as defined in § 2.00 may be allowed by special permit subject to the following findings and conditions, and to such additional terms and conditions as the Board of Appeals may impose:

(a) No merchandise or services prohibited as obscene and indecent not encompassed by the definition adult stores and theaters shall be disseminated or available therein.
(b) The permitted uses specifically exclude disseminating or offering to disseminate adult matter to minors, and suffering minors to view the displays or linger in the store shall be deemed evidence of violation of this section.
(c) No adult store or theater shall be located within the same block or 500 feet of a residential zone, dwelling house, school, place of worship, church, park, playground, youth center or of another adult store.
(d) Parking requirements for adult stores and theaters shall comply with Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements of said Zoning Ordinance.

Adult use marijuana establishments

MARIJUANA ESTABLISHMENT
This term shall include licensed marijuana establishments as defined in M.G.L. c. 94G, § 1, and other applicable law, which include a marijuana cultivator, craft marijuana cooperative, marijuana product manufacturer, marijuana retailer (store-front or delivery only), marijuana social consumption establishment (primary or mixed use), marijuana transporter (third party or existing licensee), marijuana micro-business, or any other type of licensed marijuana related business. Marijuana testing laboratories shall be defined as found in M.G.L. 94G and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

See § 155-8.04(c) for more terms associated with medical marijuana.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for detailed information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Medical marijuana treatment centers and adult use marijuana establishments.

(a) No person shall operate or allow the operation of, a Medical Marijuana Treatment Center or a Adult Use Marijuana Establishment without full compliance with all of the applicable provisions and conditions of 105 CMR 725.100 and 935 CMR 500 Massachusetts General Law, respectively, including definitions, siting, signage, and operations; provided, however, that if there is a conflict between the provisions of this section and the provisions of any other applicable state or local law, the most restrictive law shall govern. Nothing herein, exempts such uses from this or other applicable local regulations, ordinances, and/or policies.
(b) In addition to the requirements set forth in § 8.04(a) above, no person shall operate or allow the operation of, a Medical Marijuana Treatment Center or a Adult Use Marijuana Establishment until such time as a Special Permit has been duly applied for and granted by the Special Permit Granting Authority (SPGA), which Special Permit confirms full conformance with Massachusetts General Law and all of the applicable locational siting requirements of this Article. The application for such Special Permit shall be filed pursuant to the requirements and processes set forth in Article IX: Enforcement and Application Procedures of this Ordinance.

NOTE: Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers and Adult Use Marijuana Establishments are prohibited from siting such Centers and/or Establishments within a radius of five hundred feet (500 ft.) both between other like marijuana establishments/treatment centers and/or around pre-existing public or private schools providing education in kindergarten or any of grades 1 through 12, consistent with State Law. Further, there shall be a 500 foot buffer from public parks, playgrounds, and the Charles River Reservation, all as identified within the Watertown Open Space Plan. The distance shall be measured in a straight line from the nearest point of the property line of the proposed use to the nearest point of the property line of the pre-existing establishment or park.

The maximum number of marijuana retailers, as identified within § 155-8.04(c) Definitions-Marijuana Establishments, shall be limited to 20% of the liquor licenses issued pursuant to M.G.L. c.138, § 15 (commonly known as package stores).

Affordable housing

AFFORDABLE HOUSING UNIT
A dwelling unit that is affordable to and occupied by a low- or moderate-income household and meets the requirements of the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development, Local Initiative Program, for inclusion on the Chapter 40B Subsidized Housing Inventory.

See § 155-5.07(b) for more terms associated with affordable housing.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use is allowed: CR, R.75, R1.2, S-10, S-6, SC, T

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
(a) Intent and Purpose. See § 155-5.07(a) for detailed information.
(b) Defintions. See above.
(c) Applicability.

(1) This Section applies to any development, whether new construction, conversion, adaptive reuse or expansion of an existing structure, involving the creation of more than five dwelling units, or more than five Independent or Assisted Living Units, or more than five lots for residential use, Independent Living and Assisted living, outside of the Assisted Living Overlay Zone, § 5.11. Dementia Care or Skilled Nursing shall be exempt from this Section.
Developments may not be segmented to avoid compliance with this Section. "Segmentation" shall mean any development, whether new construction, adaptive reuse or redevelopment, or any division of land that would cumulatively result in an increase by five or more residential lots or dwelling units above the number existing on a parcel of land or contiguous parcels in common ownership twenty- four months prior to the application. Where such segmentation occurs, it shall be subject to this Section as a covered development. A subdivision or division of land shall mean any subdivision as defined in the Subdivision Control Law, M.G.L. c. 41, §§ 81K-81GG, or any division of land under M.G.L. c. 41, § 81P, into lots for residential use.

(2) This Section does not apply to the rehabilitation of any building or structure, all of or substantially all of which is destroyed or damaged by fire or other casualty or a natural disaster; provided, however, no rehabilitation nor repair shall increase the density, bulk or size of any such building or structure which previously existed prior to the damage or destruction thereof except in conformance with this Section.

(d) Basic Requirements. See § 155-5.07(d) for detailed information.

(e) Methods of Providing Affordable Units. See § 155-5.07(e) for detailed information.
(f) Location and Comparability of Affordable Units. § 155-5.07(f) for detailed information.
(g) Affirmative Marketing and Local Preference Policy. See § 155-5.07(g) for detailed information.
(h) Preservation of Affordability.

(1) Affordable units provided under this Section shall be subject to an Affordable Housing Restriction that contains limitations on use, occupancy, resale and rents, and provides for periodic monitoring to verify compliance with and enforce said restriction. Affordability restrictions shall be contained in applicable affordable housing restrictions, regulatory agreements, deed covenants, contractual agreements, land trust arrangements and/or other mechanisms to ensure compliance with the affordability requirements of this Section (collectively, "Affordable Housing Restriction").
(2) The Affordable Housing Restriction shall run with the land and be in force in perpetuity or for the maximum period allowed by law, and be enforceable under the provisions of Chapter 184, Section 26 or Sections 31-32 of the General Laws.
(3) The Affordable Housing Restriction shall provide that initial sales and rental of affordable housing units and their subsequent re-sales and re-rentals shall comply with federal, state and local fair housing laws, regulations and policies.
(4) The Affordable Housing Restriction shall provide that in the event that any affordable rental unit is converted to a condominium unit, the condominium unit shall be restricted in perpetuity in the manner provided for by Subsection (h)(1) above to ensure that it remains affordable to households in the same income range as prior to the condominium conversion.

(5) For a Covered Development that provides Inclusion Units. See § 155-5.07(h)(5) for detailed information.
(6) For a Covered Development that provides affordable housing through a cash payment in lieu of affordable units. See § 155-5.07(h)(6) for detailed information.
(7) For information on all legal documentation, see § 155-5.07(h)(7).

Amusement parks or sports facilities, outdoor, commercial

Assisted living

Assisted Living includes several types of housing settings. Assisted Living is a housing setting for individuals who need assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and transferring, and may include instrumental activities of daily living such as housekeeping, shopping, and transportation. It also includes Independent Living which has units that can function as stand-alone apartments. And it includes Dementia Care and/or Skilled Nursing, which is a housing setting that involves or includes the planning, provision, and evaluation of goal-oriented nursing care that requires specialized knowledge and skills acquired under the established curriculum of a school of nursing approved by a Board of Registration in nursing, and must be provided by a registered nurse, a licensed practical nurse, or a licensed vocational nurse. In each of these types of housing settings, each resident may have their own room or rooms which may include a bathroom, bedroom, living room and kitchen or kitchenette and dining areas.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit and Site Plan Review: CB, I-3, LB, NB, R.75, R1.2, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
One space per every 4 units plus one space per employee on largest shift. All other uses must follow the provisions of§ 6.00: Intent of requirements of this Zoning Ordinance.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
All residential uses that are part of Vertical mixed-use developments shall be located only on floors above the ground floor, and in no instance shall more than 15% of any ground floor level that fronts on a public way be used for the purposes of gaining access to the residential uses.

For assisted living, the first floor shall be non-residential in nature and shall be a combination of retail and service uses, some of which may serve only the residents of the assisted living facility, to be determined through the site plan review and permitting process.

The surface area of the ground floor level facade along the public way as measured vertically from ground floor to the underside of the above floor plate and horizontally along the total length of the building fronting the public way must be composed of a minimum 50% transparent materials allowing unobstructed views into the building. However, parking areas or parking structures shall be screened. Commercial pedestrian entrances into these spaces must be no more than 50 feet apart from one another, or from the corner of the building.

Automobile storage, new or used vehicles, outdoor

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Site Plan Review: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3

Vehicle Parking:
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for detailed information.

Development Requirements:

(a) All storage of motor vehicles in connection with any permitted use, including new and used automobile sales and display, and motor vehicle service, repair and auto body work shall be regulated by the provisions of this Section, except for gasoline service stations, which shall be regulated by § 6.06: Gasoline service stations.
(b) Storage of motor vehicles may be provided in a stacked configuration. For purposes of this Section, a stacked configuration shall mean placing vehicles one directly behind another and/or directly beside another.
(c) Any layout of an area for the storage of motor vehicles shall be designed to provide sufficient pedestrian access to all stored vehicles and the storage area of the lot by emergency vehicles and equipment to maintain adequate safety standards.
(d) Any layout of an area for the storage of motor vehicles shall be designed to provide adequate space for the movement and maneuvering of the vehicles on the lot as to minimize the use of public ways for the maneuvering of vehicles.
(e) The maximum width of driveways and sidewalk openings measured at the street lot line shall be 24 feet; the minimum width shall be 20 feet.
(f) All accessory driveway and entrance ways shall be graded, surfaced, and drained to the satisfaction of the Superintendent of the Department of Public Works and to the extent necessary to prevent nuisances of dust, erosion or excess water flow across public ways or onto adjacent properties.
(g) All areas used for the storage of motor vehicles shall be designed and used in such a manner as at no time to constitute a nuisance, hazard, or unreasonable impediment to traffic.
(h) All storage of motor vehicles shall be screened as provided in § 4.14: Screening.
(i) Any outdoor lighting designed to illuminate any outdoor areas used for the storage of motor vehicles, or areas related thereto such as walks, driveways, or doorways shall be continuous, non-flashing, indirect and installed and shielded in such a manner that will prevent direct light from shining upon any other property in a residence district.
(j) The storage of non-garaged unregistered motor vehicles for more than 60 days on parcels not authorized by this Zoning Ordinance for the storage or repair of said motor vehicles is prohibited, and shall constitute a violation of this ordinance.

See § 4.03: Accessory uses for more information.

Banks (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Banks (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Bars

Business accessory uses

(a) Light manufacturing or preparation of products customarily sold on the premises by the producer to the consumer, limited to not more than 25% of the Gross Floor Area of the business and engaging not more than five employees at one time.
(b) Accessory outdoor storage of commodities or materials for processing or sale upon the premises, provided that any outdoor storage in a yard adjoining a lot in a residence district shall be screened as provided in Section 4.14 or as otherwise required by this Zoning Ordinance.
(c) The sale of gasoline and oil accessory to and within a permitted parking garage for more than 10 cars or accessory to a parking lot limited to the employees of the owner, or the making of minor repairs completely within such parking garage or within a building on such parking lot.

Business offices (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Business offices (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Business, professional and commercial uses accessory to an apartment development

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit: CB, I-3, LB, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, R1.2, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for detailed information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Business and professional offices, schools operated for gain, commercial recreation (if completely enclosed), private clubs, personal services (such as barber, etc.), retail stores, eating places (with or without liquor) and banks, insofar as they do not exceed 5% of the gross floor area of the apartment development on the lot.

See § 4.03: Accessory uses for more information.

Car washing establishments

Cemeteries

Clubs, recreational

Commercial agricultural, nursery garden, greenhouse, garden supply (more than 5 acres)

AGRICULTURE
On more than five acres of land, agriculture includes all branches of farming as defined in M.G.L. c. 128, § 1A. On less than five acres of land, agriculture excludes the raising of livestock, including horses, the keeping of horses as a commercial enterprise, the keeping and raising of poultry, swine, cattle and other domesticated animals used for food purposes, bees, or fur-bearing animals.

Commercial agricultural, nursery garden, greenhouse, garden supply (up to 5 acres)

AGRICULTURE
On more than five acres of land, agriculture includes all branches of farming as defined in M.G.L. c. 128, § 1A. On less than five acres of land, agriculture excludes the raising of livestock, including horses, the keeping of horses as a commercial enterprise, the keeping and raising of poultry, swine, cattle and other domesticated animals used for food purposes, bees, or fur-bearing animals.

Day care (greater then 4,000 s.f.)

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Site Plan Review: CB, CR, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB, NB, OSC, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, R.75, R1.2, RMUD, S-10, S-6, SC, T

Vehicle Parking:
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for detailed information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Development Requirements:
New construction or conversion greater than 4,000 square feet of building area.
Any religious, educational, or licensed day care use as defined by CH.40A, § 3.

Day care (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use is allowed: CB, CR, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB, NB, OSC, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, R.75, R1.2, RMUD, S-10, S-6, SC, T

Vehicle Parking:
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for detailed information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Development Requirements:
All non-conversions; and, new construction and conversions up to 4,000 square feet of building area.
Any religious, educational, or licensed day care use as defined by CH.40A, § 3.

Day care, licensed, accessory

LICENSED DAY CARE

A day care or school-age child care facility as defined in § 9 of M.G.L.c.28A and licensed by the Massachusetts Office for Children.

Drive-in banks (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Drive-in banks (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Drive-in restaurants

RESTAURANT, DRIVE-IN; REFRESHMENT STAND, DRIVE-IN; EATING ESTABLISHMENT, DRIVE-THROUGH
Any premises used for the sale, dispensing or serving of food, refreshments, or beverages in automobiles, including those establishments where customers may serve themselves and may consume the food, refreshments or beverages on the premises, when received through a service window.

Drive-in theaters or open-air entertainment

Dwelling conversions (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Dwelling conversions (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Dwelling, owner occupied - rental of rooms

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit: CB, CR, I-2, I-3, LB, NB, R.75, R1.2, S-10, S-6, SC, T

Vehicle Parking:
1 space per 2 rooms offered for rent. See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Development Requirements:
Within a dwelling unit that is owner occupied, renting of not more than two rooms as a lodging without separate cooking facilities and for not more than two lodgers.

See § 4.03: Accessory uses for more information.

Dwellings, multi-family 4+

DWELLING, MULTI-FAMILY
A building designed or intended or used as the home or residence of four or more families, each in a separate dwelling unit, living independently of each other and who may have a common right in halls and stairways, whether rental or owner occupied, with the number of families in residence not exceeding the number of dwelling units provided.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use is allowed: CB Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit and Site Plan Review: CR, I-3, LB, NB, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, R.75, R1.2

Vehicle Parking:
Minimum:
0.75 spaces/studio.
1.00 spaces/1 bedroom.
1.50 spaces/2 bedrooms.
2.00 spaces/3+ bedrooms.
Maximum:
1.0 space/studio.
1.25 spaces/1 bedroom.
1.75 spaces/2 bedrooms.
2.25 spaces/3+ bedrooms.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Multi-family uses are allowed in the CB district as of right if at least the first floor of the structure in which they are located is used for retail or other business purposes. However, not more than the first two floors may be used for retail or service related purposes in a mixed-use project.

Dwellings, single family

A detached residential building designed or intended or used as the home or residence of one family.

Dwellings, three family, new

A detached residential building designed or intended or used exclusively as the home or residence of three families, each in a separate dwelling unit, living independently of each other and who may have a common right in halls and stairways.

Dwellings, three-families, conversion

CONVERSION
Any residential building containing one or more dwelling units that is altered by interior and/or exterior changes so as to increase the number of dwelling units in the building to some number greater than (i) the existing number of dwelling units or (ii) the number of dwelling units the building was originally designed for. Further, any commercial building for which a residential or industrial reuse is proposed, or any industrial building for which a residential or commercial reuse is proposed, shall be considered a conversion and shall be subject to the appropriate regulations of this Ordinance.

Dwellings, two family

A detached residential building designed or intended or used exclusively as the home or residence of two families. For purposes of this ordinance, a two-family dwelling includes:

(1) a building containing two dwelling units joined side by side, sharing a common wall for at least 50% of its height and depth, excluding space used for accessory uses; i.e., in which no part of one dwelling unit is over any part of the other dwelling unit, or
(2) a house containing two dwelling units, in which all or part of one dwelling unit is over all or part of the other dwelling unit.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use is allowed: CR, R.75, R1.2, T Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit: SC

Vehicle Parking:
2 spaces per dwelling unit.
3 spaces per dwelling unit if more than 4 bedrooms.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Development Requirements:
In the T District, a new two family dwelling and an existing one family detached dwelling converted into a two family dwelling on lots of less than 7,500 square feet shall be permitted as of right if the total floor to area ratio (FAR) does not exceed 0.50. In the T district only, FAR does not include basement and garage area. A new two family dwelling and an existing one family detached dwelling converted into a two family dwelling on lots of less than 7,500 square feet may exceed an FAR of 0.50 if granted a special permit by the Board of Appeals, but in no instance shall the FAR exceed 0.625. A new two-family dwelling or conversion of a single-family dwelling shall be allowed on lots that were legally created before May 29, 1996 and that were deeded at 5,000 square feet or more as of that date.

Dwellings, two-families, conversion

CONVERSION
Any residential building containing one or more dwelling units that is altered by interior and/or exterior changes so as to increase the number of dwelling units in the building to some number greater than (i) the existing number of dwelling units or (ii) the number of dwelling units the building was originally designed for. Further, any commercial building for which a residential or industrial reuse is proposed, or any industrial building for which a residential or commercial reuse is proposed, shall be considered a conversion and shall be subject to the appropriate regulations of this Ordinance.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use is allowed: R.75, R1.2, T Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit: SC

Vehicle Parking:
2 spaces per dwelling unit.
3 spaces per dwelling unit if more than 4 bedrooms.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Development Requirements:
Existing one-family converted for two-families.

In the T District, a new two family dwelling and an existing one family detached dwelling converted into a two family dwelling on lots of less than 7,500 square feet shall be permitted as of right if the total floor to area ratio (FAR) does not exceed 0.50. In the T district only, FAR does not include basement and garage area. A new two family dwelling and an existing one family detached dwelling converted into a two family dwelling on lots of less than 7,500 square feet may exceed an FAR of 0.50 if granted a special permit by the Board of Appeals, but in no instance shall the FAR exceed 0.625. A new two-family dwelling or conversion of a single-family dwelling shall be allowed on lots that were legally created before May 29, 1996 and that were deeded at 5,000 square feet or more as of that date.

Eating places (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit and Site Plan Review: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB, NB, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
1 space per 4 seats and 1 space per every 4 linear feet of standing table space.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Eating place with or without liquor.
New construction or conversion greater than 4,000 square feet of building area.

Eating places (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Educational uses (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

EXEMPT RELIGIOUS OR EDUCATIONAL USE
Those uses which are exempt from zoning regulations as specified in Chapter 40A, Section 3 of the General Laws of Massachusetts, namely the use of land or structures for religious purposes or for educational purposes where educational purposes are pursued or provided by the state or any of its agencies, subdivisions or bodies politic, or by a nonprofit educational corporation, or as may be later amended.

Educational uses (up to 4,000 s.f.)

EXEMPT RELIGIOUS OR EDUCATIONAL USE
Those uses which are exempt from zoning regulations as specified in Chapter 40A, Section 3 of the General Laws of Massachusetts, namely the use of land or structures for religious purposes or for educational purposes where educational purposes are pursued or provided by the state or any of its agencies, subdivisions or bodies politic, or by a nonprofit educational corporation, or as may be later amended.

Exhibition, lettering or sale of gravestones or monuments (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Exhibition, lettering or sale of gravestones or monuments (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Family day care

Family day care home as defined in § 9 of M.G.L.c.28A, for not more than ten children. Unless otherwise stated in this Bylaw, family day care licensed by the Massachusetts Office for Children shall be considered an accessory use incidental to a residential use.

Fast food establishments

Any place or premises used for sale, dispensing, or serving of food, refreshments or beverages where the primary business of the establishment is the sale of said items which are packaged or presented in such a manner that they can be readily eaten outside the building where it is sold.

Games of chance or similar entertainment

Gasoline service stations

Area of land, including the structures thereon, that is used for the sale of gasoline or motor vehicle fuel, oil and other lubricating substances, and including the sale of motor vehicle accessories, and which may or may not include facilities for lubrication, washing, or making minor repairs to motor vehicles, but not including the painting thereof by any means nor the making of anybody repairs nor major repairs to the mechanical system or motor vehicles, nor doing any work requiring the use of any torch, forge, fire, or flame.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit and Site Plan Review: LB, NB

Vehicle Parking:
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for detailed information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
(a) The use of a lot as a gasoline service station permitted by this Zoning Ordinance shall be regulated by the provisions of this Section.
(b) No driveway shall be permitted to any street that carries traffic at such speed or in such quantity that the Board of Appeals deems that access to or egress from a gasoline service station at such a location will create hazardous conditions.
(c) The maximum width of driveways and sidewalk openings measured at the street lot line shall be 24 feet; the minimum width shall be 20 feet.
(d) The minimum distance of driveways, measured at lot line, shall be used as follows: from corner lot line, 20 feet; from interior side lot line, 10 feet; from other driveway on same lot, 20 feet.
(e) The minimum setback of gasoline pumps from all street lot lines shall be 12 feet.
(f) A raised curb at least six inches in height shall be constructed along all lot lines except at driveway openings.
(g) Unless located in an I-1 District, all major repairs, including bodywork and all washing and lubricating, shall be carried on inside the building.
(h) The area of the lot not landscaped and so maintained shall be graded, surfaced with asphalt or other suitable material, and drained to the satisfaction of the Superintendent of the Department of Public Works to the extent necessary to prevent nuisances of dust, erosion, or excessive water flow across public ways or onto adjacent properties.
(i) All vehicles on a lot used as a gasoline service station shall be screened from any lot which is in a residence district as required by § 4.14: Screening or as may be otherwise required by the Board of Appeals.

For sign requirements for gasoline service stations, see § 155-7.03(e).

Heavy industry (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

A use engaged in the basic processing and manufacturing of materials or products predominantly from extracted or raw materials, or a use engaged in manufacturing processes using flammable or explosive materials, or manufacturing processes that potentially involve hazardous or commonly recognized offensive conditions.

Heavy industry (up to 4,000 s.f.)

A use engaged in the basic processing and manufacturing of materials or products predominantly from extracted or raw materials, or a use engaged in manufacturing processes using flammable or explosive materials, or manufacturing processes that potentially involve hazardous or commonly recognized offensive conditions.

Home occupation

A business, profession, occupation or sale of articles produced on the premises where sold, conducted within a residential building or accessory structure for gain or support by one or more residents of the dwelling which:

Home office

A business, profession or occupation conducted within a residential building or accessory structure for gain or support by residents of the dwelling that conforms to the definition and requirements of a Home Occupation, except having no employees, no deliveries, and no customers that visit the site.

Hotels and motels

(a) A hotel is a building designed or used for 10 or more guests, primarily the temporary abode of persons who have their residence elsewhere.
(b) A motel is a hotel with direct access from each guest room to a parking space.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit and Site Plan Review: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB, NB, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
1 space per employee on shift at peak occupancy plus 0.75 spaces per guest room plus 1 space per table or 5 seats in a restaurant plus 1 space per 250 square feet of space in function rooms not designed for eating.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
A Hotel Use, which in the Industrial 1 Zoning District fronts along a collector or arterial shall be subject to the dimensional regulations provided for in § 5.04: Table of Dimensional Regulations applicable to the Central Business (CB) District with the exception that the maximum allowable height shall be 79 feet/7 stories, with a minimum 16 foot first story (ground floor to second floor), and the minimum open space requirement shall be 10% and § 155-5.05(k) regulating setbacks from Residential Districts shall remain in force. If this Note conflicts with any other provision of this Ordinance the language of this Note shall control.

See § 7.11: Hotel and motel signs for detailed information on signs for hotels and motels.

Laboratories (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

RESEARCH FACILITY
A facility that has been licensed as required by state and federal authorities for the testing and development of various mechanical, electronic, photonic, agricultural, medical, and biotechnological products and services.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit and Site Plan Review: I-1, I-2, I-3, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
1 space per 600 square feet of Gross Floor Area. See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Laboratories engaged in research, experimental and testing activities, including but not limited to the fields of biology, chemistry, electronics, engineering, geology, medicine, and physics.

Laboratories (up to 4,000 s.f.)

RESEARCH FACILITY
A facility that has been licensed as required by state and federal authorities for the testing and development of various mechanical, electronic, photonic, agricultural, medical, and biotechnological products and services.

Laundry and cleaning, automatic

Light industry (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

A use engaged in the manufacture, predominantly from previously prepared materials, of finished products or parts, including processing, fabrication, assembly, treatment, packaging, incidental storage, sales and distribution of said products.

Light industry (up to 4,000 s.f.)

A use engaged in the manufacture, predominantly from previously prepared materials, of finished products or parts, including processing, fabrication, assembly, treatment, packaging, incidental storage, sales and distribution of said products.

Lodging houses, licensed

Any dwelling other than a hotel or motel in which living space is let to five(5) or more persons, including dormitories, fraternity houses and similar uses.

Marijuana testing laboratories

Medical and dental buildings (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Medical and dental buildings (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Medical marijuana treatment centers

MEDICAL MARIJUANA TREATMENT CENTER OR REGISTERED MARIJUANA DISPENSARY
Shall mean an entity as defined by Massachusetts law only, registered with and licensed by the Department of Public Health, the Cannabis Control Commission, or any other successor agency that acquires, cultivates, possesses, processes (including development of related products such as edible cannabis, tinctures, aerosols, oils or ointments), transfers, transports, sells, distributes, dispenses, or administers marijuana, products containing marijuana, related supplies, or educational materials to qualifying patients or their personal care-givers.

See § 155-8.04(c) for more terms associated with medical marijuana.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for detailed information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Medical marijuana treatment centers and adult use marijuana establishments.

(a) No person shall operate or allow the operation of, a Medical Marijuana Treatment Center or a Adult Use Marijuana Establishment without full compliance with all of the applicable provisions and conditions of 105 CMR 725.100 and 935 CMR 500 Massachusetts General Law, respectively, including definitions, siting, signage, and operations; provided, however, that if there is a conflict between the provisions of this section and the provisions of any other applicable state or local law, the most restrictive law shall govern. Nothing herein, exempts such uses from this or other applicable local regulations, ordinances, and/or policies.
(b) In addition to the requirements set forth in § 8.04(a) above, no person shall operate or allow the operation of, a Medical Marijuana Treatment Center or a Adult Use Marijuana Establishment until such time as a Special Permit has been duly applied for and granted by the Special Permit Granting Authority (SPGA), which Special Permit confirms full conformance with Massachusetts General Law and all of the applicable locational siting requirements of this Article. The application for such Special Permit shall be filed pursuant to the requirements and processes set forth in Article IX: Enforcement and Application Procedures of this Ordinance.

NOTE: Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers and Adult Use Marijuana Establishments are prohibited from siting such Centers and/or Establishments within a radius of five hundred feet (500 ft.) both between other like marijuana establishments/treatment centers and/or around pre-existing public or private schools providing education in kindergarten or any of grades 1 through 12, consistent with State Law. Further, there shall be a 500 foot buffer from public parks, playgrounds, and the Charles River Reservation, all as identified within the Watertown Open Space Plan. The distance shall be measured in a straight line from the nearest point of the property line of the proposed use to the nearest point of the property line of the pre-existing establishment or park.

The maximum number of marijuana retailers, as identified within Section 8.04(C) Definitions-Marijuana Establishments, shall be limited to 20% of the liquor licenses issued pursuant to M.G.L. c.138, § 15 (commonly known as package stores).

Mixed-use development (greater than 3 residential units)

A development that combines residential with retail or service uses within the same building or on the same site, in one or more of the following configurations:

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit and Site Plan Review: CB, I-3, LB, NB, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
The sum of commercial and residential requirements consistent with this Ordinance; except in the CB district, 1 space per dwelling unit and commercial uses consistent with § 155-6.01(f) may be reduced by Special Permit.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
NB, LB and CB Districts:
All residential uses that are part of Vertical mixed-use developments shall be located only on floors above the ground floor, and in no instance shall more than 15% of any ground floor level that fronts on a public way be used for the purposes of gaining access to the residential uses.

For assisted living, the first floor shall be non-residential in nature and shall be a combination of retail and service uses, some of which may serve only the residents of the assisted living facility, to be determined through the site plan review and permitting process.

The surface area of the ground floor level facade along the public way as measured vertically from ground floor to the underside of the above floor plate and horizontally along the total length of the building fronting the public way must be composed of a minimum 50% transparent materials allowing unobstructed views into the building. However, parking areas or parking structures shall be screened. Commercial pedestrian entrances into these spaces must be no more than 50 feet apart from one another, or from the corner of the building.

I-3 District:
See § 9.07: Special permit criteria for I-3 District. for Mixed-Use in the I-3 Zoning District. Within the RMUD Zoning District, Mixed-Use is only allowed for projects of two acres or larger that have filed and received an approved Master Plan Special Permit under § 5.18: Regional Mixed Use District (RMUD).

Residential units that are part of Mixed-Use developments shall be located primarily on floors above the ground floor, and in no instance shall more than 50% of the facade of the ground floor level that directly fronts onto and is adjacent to the primary public way be used for residential units. The Zoning Enforcement Officer shall determine the primary public way and the ground floor level. The remaining 50% of the ground floor level along the public way must have a minimum of 50% of its facade as measured vertically from ground floor to the underside of the above floor plate that faces the primary public way composed of transparent materials that admit unobstructed light and views into the project. Entrances into the non-residential unit spaces must be no more than 50 feet apart from one another, or from the corner of the building.

PSCD-1, PSCD-2 and PSCD-3 Districts:
See § 9.07: Special permit criteria for I-3 District. for Mixed-Use in the I-3 Zoning District. Within the RMUD Zoning District, Mixed-Use is only allowed for projects of two acres or larger that have filed and received an approved Master Plan Special Permit under § 5.18: Regional Mixed Use District (RMUD).

Mixed-use development (up to 3 residential units)

A development that combines residential with retail or service uses within the same building or on the same site, in one or more of the following configurations:

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use is allowed: PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3 Districts where use may be allowed with Site Plan Review: CB, LB, NB Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit and Site Plan Review: I-3

Vehicle Parking:
The sum of commercial and residential requirements consistent with this Ordinance; except in CB district, 1 space per dwelling unit and commercial uses consistent with § 155-6.01(f) may be reduced by Special Permit.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
NB, LB and CB Districts:
All residential uses that are part of Vertical mixed-use developments shall be located only on floors above the ground floor, and in no instance shall more than 15% of any ground floor level that fronts on a public way be used for the purposes of gaining access to the residential uses.

For assisted living, the first floor shall be non-residential in nature and shall be a combination of retail and service uses, some of which may serve only the residents of the assisted living facility, to be determined through the site plan review and permitting process.

The surface area of the ground floor level facade along the public way as measured vertically from ground floor to the underside of the above floor plate and horizontally along the total length of the building fronting the public way must be composed of a minimum 50% transparent materials allowing unobstructed views into the building. However, parking areas or parking structures shall be screened. Commercial pedestrian entrances into these spaces must be no more than 50 feet apart from one another, or from the corner of the building.

I-3 District:
See § 9.07: Special permit criteria for I-3 District. for Mixed-Use in the I-3 Zoning District. Within the RMUD Zoning District, Mixed-Use is only allowed for projects of two acres or larger that have filed and received an approved Master Plan Special Permit under § 5.18: Regional Mixed Use District (RMUD).

Residential units that are part of Mixed-Use developments shall be located primarily on floors above the ground floor, and in no instance shall more than 50% of the facade of the ground floor level that directly fronts onto and is adjacent to the primary public way be used for residential units. The Zoning Enforcement Officer shall determine the primary public way and the ground floor level. The remaining 50% of the ground floor level along the public way must have a minimum of 50% of its facade as measured vertically from ground floor to the underside of the above floor plate that faces the primary public way composed of transparent materials that admit unobstructed light and views into the project. Entrances into the non-residential unit spaces must be no more than 50 feet apart from one another, or from the corner of the building.

PSCD-1, PSCD-2 and PSCD-3 Districts:
See § 9.07: Special permit criteria for I-3 District. for Mixed-Use in the I-3 Zoning District. Within the RMUD Zoning District, Mixed-Use is only allowed for projects of two acres or larger that have filed and received an approved Master Plan Special Permit under § 5.18: Regional Mixed Use District (RMUD).

Motor vehicle body work

Area of land, including the structures thereon, that is used for making repairs to, altering in a structural manner, or painting in any manner, the body of motor vehicles.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit: I-1, I-2, I-3

Vehicle Parking:
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for detailed information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
The maximum number of automotive body work shops that shall be permitted in Watertown is 18, whether such shops are independent establishments or associated with motor vehicle repair shops or automotive sales shops. The Board of Appeals may grant a Special Permit for automobile body repair work only upon the conditions set forth in § 9.05: Special permit: conditions for approval of the Zoning Ordinance and upon the further condition that the applicant presents evidence satisfactory to the Board of Appeals that the proposed establishment will be a change of location or a replacement of an existing establishment, and that the total number of such establishments, including the applicant, does not exceed 18.

Motor vehicle repair

Area of land, including the structures thereon, that is used for the purpose of repairing, replacing, or altering the motor system, the muffler and/or exhaust systems, and/or other mechanically moving parts of a motor vehicle, and including glass installation, upholstery repair, installation of various automotive accessories such as sun roofs, radios, auto body painting, and similar activities.

Motor vehicle storage garage, antique

Motor vehicles for sale, lease or display

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit and Site Plan Review: I-1, I-2, I-3

Vehicle Parking:
1 space per 600 square feet of space devoted to showrooms for customer use.
For automobile display or storage lots, there shall be 150 square feet of total land area in said lots for each automobile stored or displayed.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
New and used vehicles for sale or lease and display and storage of operable vehicles only.

RMUD District:
As part of a larger multi-tenant development, a retailer may display light duty passenger vehicles as an advertisement for sale or lease. Franchise automobile dealerships and uses as defined by § 2.56: Motor vehicle body work establishment and § 2.57: Motor vehicle repair establishment of the Zoning Ordinance are prohibited.

See § 4.03: Accessory uses for more information.

Non-nuisance manufacturing (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Non-nuisance manufacturing (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Nursing homes, rest homes, or convalescent homes

Offices (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Offices (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Open-lot storage of junk, scrap, paper, rags, containers or other salvage wastes articles

Outdoor display and storage

Outdoor storage of merchandise

Outside service window

Parking and garage, accessory

Parking for Occupant's business truck

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use is allowed: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit: CR, NB, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, R.75, R1.2, RMUD, S-10, S-6, SC, T

Vehicle Parking:
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for detailed information.

Development Requirements:
Parking for Occupant's business truck, exceeding 3/4 ton capacity.

See § 4.03: Accessory uses for more information.

Parking, commercial

Personal services (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit and Site Plan Review: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB, NB, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
1 space per 350 square feet of Gross Floor Area.
1 space per 400 square feet of Gross Floor Area Above the Ground Floor.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Personal services, such as barber shop, beauty parlor, etc.
New construction or conversion greater than 4,000 square feet of building area.

Personal services (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use is allowed: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB, NB, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
1 space per 350 square feet of Gross Floor Area.
1 space per 400 square feet of Gross Floor Area Above the Ground Floor.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Personal services, such as barber shop, beauty parlor, etc.

I-2 and I-3 Districts:
Commercial uses permitted as described in § 5.01(3)(f) - (All non-conversions; and, new construction and conversions up to 4,000 square feet of building area and (g) - (All non-conversions; and, new construction and conversions up to 4,000 s.f. of building area), shall be allowed if said uses meet the following criteria; shall not exceed 4,000 square feet in a building or buildings with a Gross Floor Area of less than hundred thousand (100,000) square feet, or exceed five % of the gross floor area for a building or buildings with a Gross Floor Area hundred thousand (100,000) square feet or more, except by special permit.

Printers, publishers (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Printers, publishers (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Public or bonded warehouses, parcel or goods distribution

Recreation, commercial (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit and Site Plan Review: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
1 space per 5 fixed seats or 10 linear feet of bench floor area open to public assembly where no seats or benches are provided.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Commercial, recreation, including bowling alley or skating rink completely enclosed.
New construction or conversion greater than 4,000 square feet of building area.

Recreation, commercial (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use is allowed: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
1 space per 5 fixed seats or 10 linear feet of bench floor area open to public assembly where no seats or benches are provided.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Commercial, recreation, including bowling alley or skating rink completely enclosed.
All non-conversions; and, new construction and conversions up to 4,000 square feet of building area.

Recreational facilities

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use is allowed: CB, CR, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB, NB, OSC, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, R.75, R1.2, RMUD, S-10, S-6, SC, T

Vehicle Parking:
1 space per 5 fixed seats or 10 linear feet of bench floor area open to public assembly where no seats or benches are provided.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Recreational facilities owned or operated by a City agency or other governmental agencies or public open space.

Religious uses (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

EXEMPT RELIGIOUS OR EDUCATIONAL USE

Those uses which are exempt from zoning regulations as specified in Chapter 40A, Section 3 of the General Laws of Massachusetts, namely the use of land or structures for religious purposes or for educational purposes where educational purposes are pursued or provided by the state or any of its agencies, subdivisions or bodies politic, or by a nonprofit educational corporation, or as may be later amended.

Religious uses (up to 4,000 s.f.)

EXEMPT RELIGIOUS OR EDUCATIONAL USE

Those uses which are exempt from zoning regulations as specified in Chapter 40A, Section 3 of the General Laws of Massachusetts, namely the use of land or structures for religious purposes or for educational purposes where educational purposes are pursued or provided by the state or any of its agencies, subdivisions or bodies politic, or by a nonprofit educational corporation, or as may be later amended.

Renewable energy facilities (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

RENEWABLE OR ALTERNATIVE ENERGY RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT OR MANUFACTURING FACILITIES

Facilities used primarily for research, development, manufacturing and/or testing of innovative renewable or alternative energy information, concepts, methods, processes, materials or products. This can include the design, development, manufacturing and testing of biological, chemical, electrical, magnetic, mechanical, and/or optical components in advance of product manufacturing.

Renewable energy facilities (up to 4,000 s.f.)

RENEWABLE OR ALTERNATIVE ENERGY RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT OR MANUFACTURING FACILITIES

Facilities used primarily for research, development, manufacturing and/or testing of innovative renewable or alternative energy information, concepts, methods, processes, materials or products. This can include the design, development, manufacturing and testing of biological, chemical, electrical, magnetic, mechanical, and/or optical components in advance of product manufacturing.

Repair and alteration of clothes and domestic furnishings (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit and Site Plan Review: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB, NB, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
1 space per 350 square feet of Gross Floor Area.
1 space per 400 square feet of Gross Floor Area Above the Ground Floor.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
New construction or conversion greater than 4,000 square feet of building area.

Repair and alteration of clothes and domestic furnishings (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Residence for caretaker or janitor

Retail stores (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Establishments used for the sale of a variety of goods at retail and personal and professional services pertaining to health, beauty, and similar services but not fitness centers.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit and Site Plan Review: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB, NB, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
Retail stores:
1 space per 350 square feet of Gross Floor Area.
1 space per 400 square feet of Gross Floor Area Above the Ground Floor.
Retail with accessory food or beverages:
1 space per table or 4 seats plus 1 space per 250 square feet of function rooms not designed for eating.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Retail stores including liquor stores.
New construction or conversion greater than 4,000 square feet of building area.

Retail stores (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Establishments used for the sale of a variety of goods at retail and personal and professional services pertaining to health, beauty, and similar services but not fitness centers.

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use is allowed: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB, NB, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
Retail stores:
1 space per 350 square feet of Gross Floor Area.
1 space per 400 square feet of Gross Floor Area Above the Ground Floor.
Retail with accessory food or beverages:
1 space per table or 4 seats plus 1 space per 250 square feet of function rooms not designed for eating.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
Retail stores including liquor stores.

I-2 and I-3 Districts:
Commercial uses permitted as described in § 5.01(3)(f) - (All non-conversions; and, new construction and conversions up to 4,000 square feet of building area) and (g) - (All non-conversions; and, new construction and conversions up to 4,000 s.f. of building area) shall be allowed if said uses meet the following criteria, shall not exceed 4,000 square feet in a building or buildings with a Gross Floor Area of less than hundred thousand (100,000) square feet, or exceed five % of the gross floor area for a building or buildings with a Gross Floor Area hundred thousand (100,000) square feet or more, except by special permit.

Row houses/townhouses (3 units)

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use is allowed: PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3 Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit: CR, I-3, LB, NB, R.75, R1.2

Vehicle Parking:
Minimum - 2.0 spaces/unit.
Maximum - 2.5 spaces/unit.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Row houses/townhouses (4 to 8 units)

Schools operated for gain (greater than 4,000 s.f.)

Schools operated for gain (up to 4,000 s.f.)

Self-service storage facilities

A building consisting of small, individual self-contained units that are leased or owned for the storage of business and household goods or contractor supplies, but precluding individual storage units that have at grade and direct vehicular access.

Solar energy systems

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Site Plan Review: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB, NB, PSCD-1, PSCD-2, PSCD-3, RMUD

Vehicle Parking:
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for detailed information.

Bicycle Parking:
See § 6.07: Bicycle parking for detailed information.

Development Requirements:
(a) Definitions:

1. Solar Energy System: A device or structural design feature, a substantial purpose of which is to provide for the collection, storage and distribution of solar energy for space heating or cooling, electricity generation, or water heating.

a. Solar Energy System, Active: A solar energy system whose primary purpose is to harvest energy by transforming solar energy into another form of energy or transferring heat from a collector to another medium using mechanical, electrical, or chemical means.
b. Solar Energy System, Ground-Mounted/Canopy: An Active Solar Energy System that is structurally mounted to the ground and is not roof-mounted.
c. Solar Energy System, Roof-Mounted: An Active Solar Energy System that is structurally mounted to the roof of a building or structure.

2. Solar-ready zone: The solar-ready zone area is 50% of the roof area that is either flat or oriented between 110 degrees and 270 degrees of true north, exclusive of mandatory access or set back areas as required by the MA Fire Code.

(b) Requirements: Development requiring site plan review approval under § 9.03: Site plan review of certain residential and non-residential developments in the NB, LB, CB, I- 1, I-2, I-3, RMUD, and PSCD Districts greater than or equal to 10,000 gross square feet or containing 10 or more residential units shall include a solar energy system that is equivalent to a minimum of 50% of the roof area of all buildings. In cases where a site includes an uncovered parking structure the structure shall also have a solar energy system installed to cover a minimum of 90% of its top level.

Storage of flammable gas, liquids, or explosives (non-accessory)

Swimming pools

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use is allowed: CR, R.75, R1.2, S-10, S-6, SC, T

Development Requirements:
Swimming pools having a water depth of two feet or more when full and ready for use shall be considered an accessory building for the purposes of interpreting this Zoning Ordinance. Swimming pools shall be screened by an opaque wall, barrier or uniform fence at least five feet high and capable of prohibiting unauthorized use. In addition, swimming pools constructed below grade must be equipped with a permanently installed drainage system. Swimming pools with their associated walkways, aprons, raised decks, and their associated equipment shall not be located in a Front yard and shall be setback at least five feet from any side or rear Lot Line, and subject to appropriate Screening as determined by the Board of Appeals. The above regulations shall not apply to those swimming pools that are portable in nature.

Trade, industry or other use that is noxious, offensive or hazardous

Trailer park or mobile home park

Truck or bus terminals, yards or storage

Undertakers, funeral parlors

Vehicles for sale or lease and display, accessory

Districts Where Allowed Districts where use may be allowed with Special Permit: CB, I-1, I-2, I-3, LB

Vehicle Parking:
1 space per 600 square feet of space devoted to showrooms for customer use.
For automobile display or storage lots, there shall be 150 square feet of total land area in said lots for each automobile stored or displayed.
See Article VI: Automotive and Bicycle Parking Requirements for more information.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 6.03: Required off-street loading spaces and § 6.04: Design and layout of off-street loading facilities .

Development Requirements:
New and used vehicles for sale or lease and display and storage of operable vehicles only.

Wholesale business, warehouses

WHOLESALE
The storage, sale and/or resale of goods or products in large quantity to retailers or jobbers rather than consumers.

Yard sales

This site is for informational purposes only. Contact the Watertown Zoning Office at (617) 972-6417 with any inquiries. Got it!

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