How can I learn about a Board or Commission’s past decisions regarding a property?

The Department of Planning and Community Development retains past decisions and minutes for the boards, commissions, and committees under its jurisdiction:

  • Board of Zoning Appeals (since 2000)
  • Community Preservation Committee
  • Conservation Commission
  • Emery Estate Advisory Committee
  • Historic Commission
  • Memorial Committee
  • Redevelopment Authority
  • Waterfront Committee

Past decisions are a part of the public record and can be reviewed at the Department during normal business hours at town hall. Copies can be made for a nominal fee. In addition, meeting minutes are available online through the website of the originating board, committee, or commission.

Prior to 2000, the Board of Zoning Appeals was staffed by the Department of Municipal Licenses and Inspections (Building Department). The Building Department retains all case files from this time period. However, any decision by the Board of Zoning Appeals must be recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds in Dedham, Massachusetts. Hence, the Registry is another source for past decisions.