New Urban Design Guide for Residential and Commercial Design Review Process

Oct 20, 2014

In an effort to make BRA design review of Zoning Board of Appeal (ZBA) cases easier to navigate for residents and small business owners, the Urban Design Department has created a six-page handout that describes the review process and addresses common issues that arise during design review. The document explains permitting and variances and how design review fits into the overall permitting process. Design review ensures that exterior alterations to a property are compatible with or enhance the character of the immediate neighborhood.
 
The illustrated handout provides basic do’s and don’ts for a variety of small residential and commercial construction projects such as installing porches, bays, and windows, or altering storefront facades.
 
BRA design review staff will respond to submissions and correspondence from project applicants within five business days to determine the next steps in the approval process. Phone calls regarding ZBA cases will be returned within one business day.