Brookline Compliance With The MBTA Communities Act

What kinds of zoning codes are form-based?

Form-based zoning can encompass many different types of requirements that are built into zoning by-laws. The common theme of form-based zoning codes is that all of the requirements are objective and measurable, not subjective.

Limitations specified in form-based codes can be relaxed for specific areas by creating an overlay district.

Schematic Massing

Codes that ensure that the mass of a building is in scale with other buildings in its neighborhood.

  • Maximum building heights
  • Minimum or maximum floor heights
  • Step-backs from one floor to the next
  • Set-backs from the edge of lots

Character/architectural Style

Codes that ensure that the character and style of a building are coherent with other buildings in its neighborhood.

For example, the following could be implemented in areas where we want ground-floor retail:

  • Require 80% transparency of the first floor
  • Require prominent cornices
  • Quality materials on the ground floor

Quality of Life Impact

Codes that ensure that a building is used in such a way that minimizes the disruption to neighbors, maximizes safety and maintains or improves the quality of life for the surrounding community

  • Prohibit parking from view from the public way
  • Standards for trash management.
  • Require transparent building corners so you can see around them.
  • Require residential entrances on side streets.

What is the difference between form-based zoning and Euclidean zoning?