PLYMOUTH ZONING BOARD RECEIVES TRAINING ON RECENT STATE LAW CHANGES
Plymouth Zoning Board received comprehensive training on recent Massachusetts zoning law changes and the Board's statutory responsibilities. Attorneys Carolyn Murray and Hayley Reifeiss of KP Law reviewed significant amendments effective July 1, 2026, that replace the "substantial hardship"
Zoning Board of Appeals · Meeting of July 20, 2026
Plymouth Zoning Board received comprehensive training on recent Massachusetts zoning law changes and the Board's statutory responsibilities. Attorneys Carolyn Murray and Hayley Reifeiss of KP Law reviewed significant amendments effective July 1, 2026, that replace the "substantial hardship" variance standard with a new "practical difficulty" test, requiring the Board to balance granting relief against detriment to neighborhood and public health, safety, and welfare. Board members were reminded that most Special Permits and Variances require four affirmative votes and that statutory deadlines for decisions must be carefully observed to avoid constructive approval of applications.
The presenters advised that additional legislative changes affecting zoning and housing are currently under consideration by the Massachusetts Legislature.
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Source: the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting of July 20, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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