Small Project Review

Small Project Review applies to projects that do not meet the threshold for Large Project Review (they are less than 50,000 square feet of gross floor area) but that are expected to affect the surrounding area and public realm because of size or location. The primary elements addressed during Small Project Review relate to project design and climate resilience. Applicants will be informed if they are required to undergo Small Project Review by the City of Boston's Inspectional Services Department or by a project manager at the Planning Department.

Small Project Review generally applies to projects that add a minimum of 20,000 square feet of gross floor area or a minimum of 15 dwelling units, Small Project Review requires the submission of an application that is reviewed by the Planning Department's Urban Design Division, City agencies, and the impacted community. Elements of the project that may be reviewed include:

• consistency with urban design principles,
• site plan review,
• signage in non-residential districts,
• and climate resilience

If you are a developer looking to begin the development review process, please find information in the Development Review Guidelines.

For more information, please contact Casey Hines or Nupoor Monani, Interim Co-Directors of Development Review.