New construction in Wellesley, MA

Wellesley rules that apply

What Wellesley requires for new construction.

• Large House Review above the TLAG threshold

  New homes over their district's Total Living Area plus Garage Space threshold, and additions that raise TLAG by 10% or more to a total above it, need Planning Board approval before a building permit. The applicant first files a TLAG affidavit and plans with the Building Department.

  Source: Wellesley Planning: Large House Review Information

• Demolition review for pre-1950 dwellings

  Demolishing, or removing or enveloping 50% or more of the exterior of, a dwelling built on or before December 31, 1949 requires Historical Commission review. If the house is found Preferably Preserved, a 12-month delay applies; interior changes and non-structural roofing and siding work are not subject to review.

  Source: Wellesley Planning: Demolition Review Bylaw Information (Article 46C)

• Tree Bylaw protection plans

  Wellesley's Tree Bylaw applies when a project demolishes a structure with a footprint of 250 square feet or more, builds on a vacant lot, builds regulated retaining walls, or adds 50% or more to the existing footprint. Protected trees sit in a Tree Yard along the lot lines whose depth depends on the zoning district.

  Source: Town of Wellesley: Section 16E Tree Bylaw, rev. February 2021 (PDF)

• Specialized code for new homes

  Wellesley adopted the Municipal Opt-in Specialized Energy Code effective January 1, 2024. It applies to new construction only; mixed-fuel buildings must be pre-wired for future electric equipment and, with some exceptions, include on-site solar.

  Source: Wellesley Climate Action: Municipal Opt-in Specialized Energy Code