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Learn what a YES or NO vote means before the Special City Election on April 24, 2025.
Welcome to Gloucester’s Multifamily Overlay District & 3A Zoning Resource Hub
What you will find here?
This website provides comprehensive information to help Gloucester residents understand the proposed Multi-Family Overlay District (MFOD), state mandated 3A zoning ordinance, and upcoming local election. Here, you’ll find details on what a YES or NO vote means, as well as background on General Law chapter 40A, Section 3A (MBTA Communities Act) and what the recent Supreme Judicial Court decision means for the law.
Learn how the proposed MFOD was developed and how it streamlines the permitting for small-scale developments while maintaining local zoning standards, explore zoning maps and strategic locations where the MFOD applies, and discover how it encourages multi-family housing. Additionally, this resource covers the potential financial impact of non-compliance, including access to state funding critical for infrastructure and housing projects. Finally, we address common myths and facts to clear up misinformation surrounding 3A and the MFOD.
What is the the Proposed Multifamily Overlay District (MFOD)?
The proposed MFOD ensures Gloucester complies with state law while customizing zoning regulations to meet local needs. Centered around the Downtown and West Gloucester commuter rail stations, the proposed MFOD keeps existing zoning rules intact but streamlines the process for three-unit multifamily buildings. As long as the property meets zoning requirements, a building permit will be sufficient—eliminating the need for a special permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Additionally, the proposed MFOD designates specific sites, shown on the map, for mid-scale residential development. Like all other mid-scale projects, these must comply with inclusionary zoning requirements outlined in the zoning ordinance.
Learn more about the proposed MFOD here.
View a larger, detailed version of the map by clicking the link.
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