Lot coverage ratios in Bristol County zoning districts typically cap impervious coverage at 40 to 60%. MA Stormwater Standards add post-construction treatment for larger disturbances.
Bristol County municipalities limit lot coverage through zoning bylaws — typically 40 to 60% impervious coverage in residential districts, 60 to 80% in commercial zones. Coverage calculations include primary structures, accessory buildings, driveways, patios, and paved walkways. Permeable pavers may receive partial credit depending on local bylaw (Fall River, New Bedford, Dartmouth treat permeable pavers with 50% credit in some districts). Larger projects disturbing 1+ acre trigger MA Stormwater Standards and DEP/EPA NPDES Construction General Permit. Coastal properties in Dartmouth, Westport, Fairhaven, and Swansea face additional Conservation Commission review under MGL c. 131 §40 (Wetlands Protection Act) for work within 100 ft of wetland resources. Lot coverage variances require ZBA approval.
Exceeding lot coverage: correction order. Required removal of impervious surface. Fines $200 to $1,000. Stormwater violations: MassDEP enforcement possible.
New Bedford, MA
New Bedford regulates noise through its general ordinance provisions and MassDEP 310 CMR 7.10. Habitual barking or noise that disturbs a neighborhood is decl...
New Bedford, MA
New Bedford declares habitual barking dogs a public nuisance under the city ordinance. The keeping of any dog which by habitual howling, yelping, barking or ...
New Bedford, MA
New Bedford regulates construction noise under its general ordinance provisions. Construction activities that create excessive noise and disturb the neighbor...
New Bedford, MA
New Bedford enforces snow emergency parking bans during winter storms under Chapter 23 of the Code of Ordinances. During a snow ban, parking is allowed on th...
New Bedford, MA
New Bedford restricts heavy traffic and commercial vehicle parking in designated zones under §23-23 of the Code of Ordinances. Commercial vehicles must compl...
New Bedford, MA
New Bedford's zoning ordinance Chapter 9 regulates off-street parking and driveways. Parking in front of public or private driveways is prohibited. Off-stree...
See how New Bedford's lot coverage limits rules stack up against other locations.
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