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Zoning Restrictions: New Bedford vs Somerset

How do zoning restrictions rules compare between New Bedford, MA and Somerset, MA?

New Bedford and Somerset have similar restriction levels.

New Bedford, MA

Bristol County

Some Restrictions

New Bedford's Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance Chapter 9 regulates home occupations. Home businesses must be conducted by a resident, be secondary to residential use, and not alter the residential character of the premises. Specific requirements vary by zoning district.

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Somerset, MA

Bristol County

Some Restrictions

Home occupation regulations in Bristol County are governed by individual municipal zoning ordinances under MGL Ch. 40A. Each town defines permitted home business activities in residential districts. Most require the business to be incidental to residential use and operated by a resident.

View full Somerset rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactNew BedfordSomerset
CodeCh. 9 Comprehensive Zoning-
OperatorMust be resident of dwellingMust be resident of dwelling
CharacterNo external changes to residential appearance-
Secondary UseMust be incidental to residence-
State Law-MGL Ch. 40A (zoning enabling act)
Authority-Individual town zoning ordinances
General Standard-Incidental to residential use

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

New Bedford FAQ

Can I run a business from my home in New Bedford?

New Bedford's Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance Chapter 9 regulates home occupations. Home businesses must be conducted by a resident, be secondary to residential use, and not alter the residential character of the premises. Specific requirements vary by zoning district.

What zoning restrictions apply to home businesses in New Bedford?

Code: Ch. 9 Comprehensive Zoning. Operator: Must be resident of dwelling. Character: No external changes to residential appearance. Secondary Use: Must be incidental to residence.

Somerset FAQ

Can I run a business from my home in Bristol County?

Home occupation regulations in Bristol County are governed by individual municipal zoning ordinances under MGL Ch. 40A. Each town defines permitted home business activities in residential districts. Most require the business to be incidental to residential use and operated by a resident.

What zoning restrictions apply to home businesses in Bristol County?

State Law: MGL Ch. 40A (zoning enabling act). Authority: Individual town zoning ordinances. General Standard: Incidental to residential use. Operator: Must be resident of dwelling.

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