New construction in Watertown, MA

Watertown rules that apply

What Watertown requires for new construction.

1. 1

   Demolition delay, 50-year threshold

   Proposing to demolish all or a substantial part of a Watertown building 50 or more years old starts a two-step Historical Commission review: a preliminary look by the Chair and one member, then a public hearing if needed. If the Commission finds the building significant and worth preserving, it can delay demolition for up to 24 months.

   Source: Watertown Historical Commission: Demolition Delay process

2. 2

   Street opening permit and winter ban

   Excavation for new laterals or utilities, driveway paving, and storing dumpsters or materials in the public right-of-way all need a street opening permit filed by the contractor. Watertown bars street openings from November 15 to April 15 unless the Superintendent of Public Works allows an exception.

   Source: Watertown DPW: Public Works Permits (street opening)

3. 3

   Health Department demolition plan

   Before demolition, Watertown's Health Department wants a plan for noise, odor, dust and rodent control, plus an affidavit from a certified asbestos inspector that asbestos was removed under state rules or was not present.

   Source: Watertown Health Department: Demolition Requirements

4. 4

   Specialized Stretch Code

   Watertown says it was the first municipality in Massachusetts to adopt the Specialized Stretch Code, in January 2023; the state's list shows it in effect from July 1, 2023. New homes and major additions are built to that standard.

   Source: City of Watertown: Buildings and Energy