About the Planning Board

The Planning Board reviews land use and development matters, including subdivision control, site plan review, special permits, and long-range planning efforts in the Town of Bridgewater.

Agendas, Minutes & Recordings

View Planning Board agendas and minutes, or watch recorded meetings online.

Board Structure & Appointments

The Planning Board consists of five members appointed for five-year terms. Terms are staggered so that one position is generally available for appointment each year, except when additional vacancies occur.

Alternate members may act on Special Permit applications in cases of absence, inability to act, conflict of interest, or vacancy. Alternate members are appointed annually by the Town Manager.

Applications

Bridgewater uses an online permitting system for applications reviewed by the Planning & Zoning Board. New applicants must first register for an account.

For assistance, contact the CED Department at 508-697-0950.

Duties & Responsibilities

Massachusetts General Laws govern the Planning Board. Its primary powers and duties fall within Chapter 41, including the Subdivision Control Law, with other statutes also applying. The Planning Board may become involved in the following. 

• Master Plan — Chapter 41, Section 81D
• Official Land Use Map — Chapter 41, Sections 81E-81H
• Planning in General — Chapter 41, Sections 81A-81J
• Public Ways — Chapter 41
• Site Plan Review — Chapter 41
• Special Permits under zoning — Chapter 40A
• Street Names — Chapter 85, Sections 3, 3-A, and 3-B
• Subdivision Control — Chapter 41
• Subdivision Rules and Regulations — Chapter 41, Section 81Q
• Zoning Ordinances — Chapter 40A

Key Documents

• Zoning Ordinance (Public) — effective 3/4/2025
• Bridgewater Zoning Map
• Bridgewater Comprehensive Master Plan (May 2022)
• Planning Board Fee Schedule
• Rules and Procedures for the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals (2018)
• Site Plan Modification Form
• Special Permit / Site Plan Application
• Subdivision Application Set
• Subdivision Rules & Regulations — amended 09/06/2018

Planning Board Members

Contact

Questions regarding the Planning Board may be directed to CED@bridgewaterma.org.