City planners pointing at a zoning map with pencils.

iStock photo illustration

Medford’s residential rezoning proposal creates four new subdistricts where multifamily housing can be built by-right, ranging from two- to six-unit dwellings.

But other limiting factors would reduce the ranks of properties eligible for redevelopment, including lot size and setbacks from roads and neighboring parcels.

The proposal sets a minimum lot size of 4,000 square feet in all four subdistricts,  according to a presentation by consultants Innes Land Strategies Group. Minimum building setbacks are 5 feet for side yards and 10 feet for front and rear yards.

Maximum building heights are set at 3 stories in all four subdistricts.

In the highest-density subdistrict – Urban Residential 2 – a 4-story building would be permitted would be permitted if a developer exceeds the city’s existing inclusionary zoning, which requires a 10 percent to 15 percent income-restricted component depending upon the total unit count.

The maximum building footprint is 40 percent of a lot, and permeable surfaces such as grass are required on at least 30 percent of each lot.

Minimum off-street parking requirements range from 0.5 to 2 spaces, depending upon the subdistrict.

All residential subdistricts also would allow so-called historic conversions, applying to structures at least 70 years old. Such single-family homes could be broken up into two to five housing units, depending upon the district. No changes to the building exterior would be permitted.

Ground Rules Limit Effects of Medford Zoning Changes

by Steve Adams time to read: 1 min
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