To promote the health, safety, convenience, morals and general welfare of its inhabitants, to lessen the danger from fire and congestion and to improve the Town under the provisions of the State Zoning Act, MGL c. 40A, the use, construction, repair, alteration and height of buildings and structures and the use of land and the size and shape of lots in the Town of Nantucket are hereby restricted and regulated as hereinafter provided.
A. ACCESSORY DWELLING ACCESSORY USES ADULT ON-SITE MARIJUANA SOCIAL CONSUMPTION OPERATOR ADULT USES(1) (2) AFFORDABLE HOUSING AGRICULTURE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE SALES ALTERATION ANIMAL FEEDLOT ANIMAL HOSPITAL ANIMAL SHELTER APARTMENT(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
APARTMENT BUILDING(S)(1) (2)
AQUIFER ARCADE ATTAINABLE HOUSING AUTOMOBILE SERVICE STATION AVERAGE MEAN GRADE(1) (2) BAKERY BUILDING BUILDING AND STRUCTURE HEIGHT(1) (2) (3) (4) BUILDING, DETACHED BUILDING ENVELOPE BUILDING COMMISSIONER BUILDING INSPECTOR BUILDING, PRINCIPAL BULK MERCHANDISE RETAIL CATERING SERVICE CLINIC, MEDICAL OR DENTAL CLUB COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL WECS CONSTRUCT CONTRACTORS SHOP CONVENIENCE STORE COUNTRY OVERLAY DISTRICT DAY-CARE CENTER DISPOSAL DOCK or PIER or WHARF DRIVEWAY ACCESS DUPLEX DWELLING UNIT ELDER HOUSING FACILITIES ELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLD EMPLOYER DORMITORY ERECT FAMILY FLOOD HAZARD DISTRICT FLOOR AREA, GROSS FOOD PROCESSING ESTABLISHMENT FORMULA BUSINESS(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) FRONTAGE GARAGE GARAGE APARTMENT(1) (2) GRID-CONNECTED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM GROUND COVER GROUND COVER RATIO GROUND-MOUNTED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM (ACCESSORY USE) HAZARDOUS OR TOXIC MATERIALS HEALTH SPA HISTORICAL HIGH WATER TABLE HOME OCCUPATION(1) (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (2) HOSPITAL HOTEL IMPERVIOUS INCLUSIONARY UNIT JUNK YARD KENNEL LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR LARGE SCALE GROUND-MOUNTED SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC INSTALLATION LIGHT MANUFACTURING LODGING, ROOMING OR GUEST HOUSE LONG-TERM RENTAL (LTR) LOT LOT AREA LOT LINE LUMBERYARD MAJOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT MARIJUANA ESTABLISHMENT, RECREATIONAL(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) MARIJUANA MEMBERSHIP CLUB MARIJUANA PRODUCTS MARIJUANA TREATMENT CENTER, MEDICAL(1) (2) (3) MARITIME SERVICE STATION MEAN GRADE MEANS OF ACCESS MINING MOTOR VEHICLE PARKING LOTS OR STRUCTURES MUNICIPAL NANTUCKET HOUSING NEEDS COVENANT-OWNERSHIP FORM NEIGHBORHOOD EMPLOYEE HOUSING NONCONFORMING STRUCTURE, USE OR LOT OFFICE OPEN AIR MARKET OPEN LAND ORIGINAL LOT OUTBUILDING(S) OWNER OCCUPIED OWNERSHIP PARKING SPACE PARKING SPACE: TANDEM/STACKED PERSONAL SERVICES PERSONAL WATERCRAFT PHARMACY PRIMARY DWELLING PRINCIPAL DWELLING PRINT SHOP PROTECTED USE ADU QUALIFIED FAMILY MEMBER DEED RESTRICTION RECHARGE RECREATIONAL FACILITY RESIDENTIAL RECREATIONAL OUTDOOR WATER FEATURE(1) (2) (a) (b) (c) (3) (4) RESIDENTIAL WECS ROOF-MOUNTED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM SECONDARY DWELLING
SECONDARY LOTS SHED SHOREFRONT LAND SHORT-TERM RENTAL SOLAR ENERGY FACILITIES SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM SOLID WASTE SPECIAL PERMIT GRANTING AUTHORITY STABLE, PRIVATE STABLE, PUBLIC STORAGE CONTAINER STREET(1) (2) (3) STREET LINE STRUCTURE STUDIO SUPERMARKET SWIMMING POOL - COMMERCIAL TAKE-OUT FOOD ESTABLISHMENT TAKE-OUT STATION TAXICAB BUSINESS TENT TERTIARY DWELLING(1) (2) (a) (b) (c) (3) (4) (5) TERTIARY LOT TIME-SHARING OR TIME-INTERVAL-OWNERSHIP DWELLING UNIT OR DWELLING TINY HOUSE UNIT TOWN OVERLAY DISTRICT TRANSFER STATION TRANSIENT RESIDENTIAL FACILITIES TRUCK/BUS TERMINAL UNENCLOSED PORCH USE, PRINCIPAL WATER-DEPENDENT USE WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS) WINDMILL WORKFORCE HOMEOWNERSHIP HOUSING WORKFORCE RENTAL HOUSING YARD YARD, FRONT YARD, REAR or SIDE YEAR-ROUND HOUSING ZONE II ZONING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
Definitions. In this Zoning Bylaw, Chapter 139 of the Nantucket Code, the following terms, unless a contrary meaning is required by the context or is specifically prescribed, shall have the following meanings:
A dwelling unit located within an owner-occupied single-family building. The exterior architectural design and use of an accessory dwelling shall be harmonious with the appearance and use of the structure as the owner's home. The gross floor area of the accessory dwelling shall not be more than the gross floor area of the primary dwelling and not greater than 800 square feet. The accessory dwelling shall be self-contained with separate sleeping, cooking and sanitary facilities for the exclusive use of the occupant. The structure containing the primary dwelling and accessory dwelling shall be in single ownership, and one of the units shall be owner-occupied.
[Added 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009; amended 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 61, AG approval 8-5-2015; 5-2-2022 ATM by Art. 53, AG approval 10-31-2022]
Separate structures, buildings or uses which are subordinate and customarily incidental to a principal structure, building or use located on the same lot.
[1][Amended 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 8-5-2015]
A marijuana retailer where consumers are permitted to consume marijuana and marijuana products on its premises
[Added 10-10-2018 STM by Art. 1, AG approval 8-6-2019]
All uses as described and defined in MGL c. 40A, § 9A, as may be amended from time to time to include: Any establishment which has 10% of its stock-in-trade on hand; whose sales, including rentals from such a portion of stock equals or exceeds 10% of monthly sales; or has 10% or greater floor area open to and observable by customers used for the display or storage of adult-oriented material, or as presentation time of live or recorded performances, shall be defined as an adult use. Adult uses are subject to the following standards:
[Added 4-10-2002 ATM by Art. 41, AG approval 7-31-2002; amended 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 8-5-2015; 4-2-2016 ATM by Art. 58, AG approval 7-12-2016]
Adult uses shall be located in stand-alone facilities and shall not be allowed within a building or structure containing other retail, commercial, residential, industrial or other uses.
A minimum separation of 300 feet, measured between lot lines, is required between adult uses and state-certified public or private schools or state-licensed day-care centers.
Dwelling units restricted to occupancy by families with annual incomes less than 150% of the median annual household income for Nantucket County as determined by the most recent calculation of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
[Added 4-12-1994 ATM by Art. 48, AG approval 4-29-1994; amended 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 57, AG approval 8-18-2008; 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 8-5-2015]
The use of land for agricultural purposes, including farming, dairying, pasturage, apiculture, horticulture, floriculture, viticulture, and animal and poultry husbandry, and the necessary uses for packing, treating and storing the produce.
A facility for the retail sale of beer, wine, or other alcoholic beverages for off-premises consumption.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
Any change in size, shape or use of a building or structure.
Land on which 25 or more livestock per acre are kept for the purpose of feeding.
A facility maintained by and for the use of a licensed veterinarian for the observation, care, and treatment of domestic animals. An animal hospital may include the kenneling of animals for medical services only.
[Added 5-6-2023 ATM by Art. 37, AG approval 9-8-2023]
A facility used to house or contain stray, homeless, abandoned, or unwanted animals and that is owned, operated, or maintained by a nonprofit corporation for the purpose of providing temporary kenneling and finding permanent adoptive homes for animals. An animal shelter may, as an accessory use, provide kenneling services to the public and medical care to animals.
[Added 5-6-2023 ATM by Art. 37, AG approval 9-8-2023]
A dwelling unit located within a commercial structure or detached structures on the same lot with a commercial use. An apartment(s) that is located within a commercial structure shall not occupy more than 50% of the first floor area of the commercial structure(s). The Planning Board may by special permit waive this requirement based on a finding that the commercial character of the area will not be negatively impacted by the location of a dwelling unit on the first floor of the commercial structure. A maximum of four apartments are allowed by right in certain districts, subject to the dimensional requirements set forth below. The Planning Board may issue a special permit to allow more than four apartments on larger lots, provided that: (1) the overall number of units shall not exceed the density set forth in the schedule below; and (2) the applicant shall demonstrate through submission of a dimensioned lotting plan that the subject property could be divided into multiple lots pursuant to a conventional subdivision plan without requiring waivers from the Planning Board’s Rules and Regulations Governing the Subdivision of Land (as in effect at the time of application):
[Added 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009; amended 4-2-2013 ATM by Art. 30, AG approval 7-26-2013; 4-5-2014 ATM by Art. 66, AG approval 5-7-2014; 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 8-5-2015; 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 20, AG approval 2-26-2018; 6-5-2021 ATM by Art. 47, AG approval 10-7-2021; 5-2-2022 ATM by Art. 58, AG approval 9-8-2022; 5-7-2024 ATM by Art. 39, AG approval 9-27-2024]
CDTone dwelling unit is permitted for each 1,000 square feet of lot area.
CMIone dwelling unit is permitted for each 2,000 square feet of lot area.
CNone dwelling unit is permitted for each 3,000 square feet of lot area.
CTEC one dwelling unit is permitted for each 4,000 square feet of lot area.
CI one dwelling unit is permitted for each 5,000 square feet of lot area.
The Planning Board may waive the lot area requirements as set forth in the schedule above through the issuance of a special permit, based on the finding that not more than one additional unit than would otherwise be allowed, not to exceed a total of four, may be constructed. |
A structure or structures containing a maximum of up to eight bedrooms in up to six dwelling units on a single lot , or an equivalent density, through the issuance of a special permit granted by the Planning Board, for a project, comprised of one or more parcels of land in the same ownership or control, that could be divided into multiple lots on a conventional subdivision plan meeting all dimensional and upland requirements of the bylaw and consistent with the Rules and Regulations Governing the Subdivision of Land, as may be amended by the Planning Board from time to time, as demonstrated by the submission of a dimensioned lotting plan, with no commercial or other uses, shall be allowed in the following districts:
[Added 4-5-2014 ATM by Art. 68, AG approval 5-7-2014; amended 4-2-2016 ATM by Arts. 36, 60, AG approval 7-12-2016; 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 20, AG approval 2-26-2018]
CN/VNone dwelling unit is permitted for each 2,500 square feet of lot area.
CMIOne dwelling unit is permitted for each 1,250 square feet of lot area.
The Planning Board shall be the special permit granting authority. |
A geological formation that stores and transmits significant quantities of recoverable water.
A place or facility where any electric or electronic machine, such as pinball or other similar electronic games, is played for amusement only. Shall not be construed so as to include bingo games, juke boxes, children’s mechanical rides (e.g., horses, rocket ships), or machines that sell merchandise nor shall it be construed so as to include gambling devices or any other devices prohibited by law.[2]
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
Dwelling unit(s) restricted to occupancy by households who earn at or below 240% of the median annual household income for Nantucket County as reported by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC), whichever is the most current, adjusted for household size. The calculation for 240% of the Nantucket County AMI shall use the 50% Nantucket AMI as reported by HUD or the EOHLC, whichever is the most current.
[Added 5-3-2025 ATM by Art. 49, AG approval 12-10-2025]
Any building, structure or land used primarily for the dispersal, sale, or offering for sale of automotive fuels, oils or accessories, including lubrication of automobiles and replacement or installation of minor parts and accessories, but not including major repair work, such as motor replacement or rebuilding, body and fender repair, or painting.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
[Added 4-12-1994 ATM by Art. 55, AG approval 4-29-1994]
Average mean grade shall be the average of the mean grades established along the median grade line. There shall be only one average mean grade for each continuous median grade line.
Where a side does not have continuous existing and/or finish grade lines, caused by retaining walls or horizontal breaks created by setbacks or protrusions, the average mean grade shall be the average of separately calculated average mean grades for each separate continuous median grade line and shall be proportional to the horizontal length of each continuous median grade line.
An establishment primarily engaged in the retail sale of baked goods for off-site consumption. A bakery may include, as an accessory use, wholesale distribution of goods prepared on the site.[3]
[Added 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009; amended 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 18, AG approval 2-26-2018]
A structure forming a shelter for persons, animals or property and having a roof. Where the context allows, the word "building" shall be construed as though followed by the words "or part thereof."
[Added 4-12-1994 ATM by Art. 55, AG approval 4-29-1994; amended 4-12-1999 ATM by Art. 30, AG approval 8-10-1999; 4-2-2016 ATM by Art. 60, AG approval 7-12-2016]
The height of the building or structure shall be established for each side.
There shall only be one highest point for each building or structure.
No one building and/or structure side shall exceed 32 feet, except in the CDT and CMI Districts, or as otherwise permitted.
Where a side does not have continuous existing and/or finish grade lines, the average mean grade shall be the average of separately calculated average mean grades of each separate continuous median grade line.
A building surrounded by an open space on the same lot.
The sole area on a lot, less than allowed by applicable setback requirements, for the placement of a building or other structures.
[Added 11-13-1990 STM by Art. 19, AG approval 3-19-1991]
The chief official of the Town of Nantucket who is responsible for the administration and enforcement of Code of Massachusetts Regulations 780, State Board Building Regulations and Standards.
[Added 4-10-2000 ATM by Art. 36, AG approval 8-2-2000; amended 4-2-2016 ATM by Art. 60, AG approval 7-12-2016]
The Building Commissioner, or his/her designee, otherwise referred to in this chapter as the "Inspector of Buildings."
[Amended 4-10-2000 ATM by Art. 46, AG approval 8-2-2000]
A nonaccessory building on a lot in which a principal use is conducted.
The sale of goods that require a large amount of floor space and which involves goods both warehoused and retailed at the same location. Items for sale include large, categorized products such as household appliances, furniture, construction and lawn equipment, electrical and heating fixtures and supplies, plumbing fixtures and supplies.[4]
[Added 4-2-2013 ATM by Art. 30, AG approval 7-26-2013]
An establishment in which food, meals, and incidental services are prepared and then delivered to another location for consumption.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
Offices organized as a unified facility by one or more physicians, dentists, chiropractors or other licensed practitioners to provide medical or dental treatment and examination, but not including bed-patient care.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
Buildings and facilities, owned or operated by a corporation, association, person or persons, for a social, educational, or recreational purpose, to which membership is required for participation and not primarily operated for profit nor to render a service that is customarily carried on as a business.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
As in a trade, occupation, or business, including a transient residential facility, but excluding governmental, religious or private residential uses.
A WECS designed or operated to provide energy principally to consumers located off the premises and does not meet the requirements established for a residential WECS.
To build, erect or assemble.
[5]An establishment used for the indoor repair, maintenance, or storage of a contractor’s vehicles, equipment, or materials, and may include the contractor’s business office but which does not use any exterior storage area.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
A retail store offering for sale groceries and household items intended for the convenience of the neighborhood with a floor area of less than 2,500 square feet; does not include automotive service stations or vehicle repair shops.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
Any institution or place which receives for temporary custody, separate and apart from their parents, five or more children not of common parentage, under seven years of age, during part or all of the day, with or without stated educational purposes.
Any discharge, deposit, injection, dumping, spilling, leaking or placing so that waste may enter ground or surface water.
Each such word shall mean the same for purposes of this chapter, and shall be used interchangeably, either singularly or in the plural, in the conjunctive or in the disjunctive, and shall mean any structure, floating or fixed, attached or adjacent to land, and placed in or and extending into coastal inland waters (in the case of tidal waters, seaward of the mean high tide line) which is designed, or is suitable for use, for access to vessels, or for swimming or any other similar recreational, commercial, or educational purpose.[7]
[Added 4-10-2000 ATM by Art. 30, AG approval 8-2-2000]
A vehicular access point onto any public way, private way or any way customarily used by the public for purposes for which a public way is generally used in the Town or County of Nantucket.[8]
[Added 4-9-2001 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-2-2001]
A structure containing two dwelling units, but not including primary dwelling with an accessory dwelling unit or tertiary dwelling unit contained therein. In the R-1 and ROH/SOH Districts only, both dwelling units shall be in the same ownership except when at least one dwelling unit is subject to a Nantucket Housing Needs Covenant (NHNC). A duplex shall not be construed to include a primary dwelling and secondary dwelling as defined in this chapter.
[Added 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009; amended 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 8-5-2015; 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 18, AG approval 2-26-2018; 5-6-2023 ATM by Art. 41, AG approval 9-8-2023]
A single housing unit providing complete, independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation.
[Amended 5-3-2025 ATM by Art. 46, AG approval 10-16-2025]
One or more structures used for independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing care, hospice care, and other long-term residential care for persons 55 or older or the disabled. Such structures may be detached dwelling units, attached dwelling units, integrated dwelling units, and/or multiple-bedroom long-term care facilities, as well as associated and ancillary facilities and services.
[Added 4-10-2000 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-2-2000; amended 9-21-2009 STM by Art. 16, AG approval 12-11-2009]
A household whose total annual income is less than 150% of the median annual household income for Nantucket County as determined by the most recent calculation of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
[Amended 11-13-1990 STM by Art. 18, AG approval 3-19-1991; 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 57, AG approval 8-18-2008]
A dwelling on a lot occupied by a legally permitted or nonconforming commercial or nonprofit recreational use, or on an adjoining lot under the same ownership, all located outside of the TOD in which sleeping accommodations for more than five persons are provided by one or more employers, with occupancy limited solely to their employees.
[Amended 4-10-2000 ATM by Art. 31, AG approval 8-2-2000; 4-9-2001 ATM by Art. 37, AG approval 8-2-2001; 4-9-2001 ATM by Art. 38, AG approval 8-2-2001; 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 55, AG approval 8-18-2008; 4-2-2013 ATM by Art. 30, AG approval 7-26-2013]
To construct or reconstruct or excavate, fill, drain or conduct physical operations of any kind in preparation for or in pursuance of construction or reconstruction; or to move a building or structure upon a lot.
One or more persons occupying a dwelling unit and living as a single household.
[Amended 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 8-5-2015]
An overlay district to all other districts. The district includes all special flood hazard zones designated as Zone A, AH, AO, A5-8, V5-8, and the FEMA Flood Boundary and Floodway Map, all of which indicate the one-hundred-year regulatory floodplain on Nantucket's Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), dated July 2, 1992, and issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the administration of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Exact boundaries are further defined by the Flood Insurance study booklet dated June 3, 1986. The FIRM, and Flood Insurance Study booklet are incorporated herein by reference and are on file with the Town Clerk, Planning Board, Building Commissioner, and Conservation Commission.
[Added 5-4-1993 ATM by Art. 44, AG approval 5-24-1993]
The sum of the areas of the several floors of the structure, as measured by the exterior faces of the walls, including fully enclosed porches and the like as measured by the exterior limits thereof, but excluding basement and cellar areas devoted exclusively to uses accessory to the operation of the structure; and areas devoted to housing mechanical equipment customarily located in the basement or cellar, such as heating and air-conditioning equipment, plumbing, electrical equipment, and residential laundry facilities.
Manufacturing establishments that produce or process foods for consumption. Includes: (1) bakery products, sugar and confectionery products primarily for wholesale distribution, but not including a "bakery" as herein defined; (2) dairy products processing; (3) fats and oil products (including rendering plants); (4) fruit and vegetable canning, preserving, and related processing; (5) grain mill products and by-products; (6) meat, poultry, and seafood canning, curing, and byproduct processing; and (7) distilleries.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008; amended 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 18, AG approval 2-26-2018]
A type of retail sales establishment, restaurant, tavern, bar, or take-out food establishment which is under common ownership or control or is a franchise, and is one of 10 or more other businesses or establishments worldwide maintaining two or more of the following features:
[Added 4-4-2006 ATM by Art. 42, AG approval 10-26-2006; amended 4-2-2013 ATM by Art. 31, AG approval 7-26-2013]
Standardized menu or standardized array of merchandise with 50% or more of in-stock merchandise from a single distributor bearing uniform markings.
Trademark or service mark, defined as a word, phrase, symbol or design, or a combination or words, phrases, symbols or designs, that identifies and distinguishes the source of the goods from one party from those of others, on products or as part of store design, such as cups, napkins, bags, boxes, wrappers, straws, store signs or advertising devices.
Standardized color scheme used throughout the interior or exterior of the establishment, including, but not limited to, graphics, awnings, signage, and the like visible from the exterior of the structure.
Standardized interior decor, including, but not limited to, style of furniture, wall coverings, permanent fixtures, displays, window treatments.
Standardized uniform, including but not limited to aprons, pants, shirts, smocks or dresses, hat, and pins (other than name tags).
The lineal extent of the boundary between a lot and an abutting street measured along a single street line affording legal and practical access to the lot. For a lot abutting two or more streets, frontage is measured along any single street line of the lot. Frontage shall not include jogs in street width, backup strips and other irregularities in street line, such as at a turning "T" or hammerhead turnaround or street-width change.
A building for covered shelter of one or more motor vehicles. A garage shall be for vehicle parking at grade, or for commercial storage, repair, washing, painting or other servicing of motor vehicles. The Planning Board shall be the special permit granting authority for residential garages serving as a primary use on a lot.
[Amended 4-2-2013 ATM by Art. 30, AG approval 7-26-2013]
A dwelling unit located within a residential or commercial garage. The dwelling unit shall not exceed 150% of the gross floor area of the garage. If located on the same lot as a primary dwelling unit, the following requirements shall be applicable:
[Added 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009; amended 4-6-2011 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 9-15-2011]
Both dwelling units shall be in the same ownership unless one of the two dwelling units is subject to the NHNC. The ownership of a lot by a condominium cooperative housing corporation, land trust, or other common interest ownership entity in which there is a separate beneficial ownership of the primary dwelling and garage apartment on the lot shall not be deemed to constitute "the same legal and beneficial ownership."
The Planning Board shall make a determination regarding the adequacy of access to the lot and structures prior to the issuance of a building permit. Planning Board approvals granted after April 8, 1996, shall be valid for a period of two years from the date of plan endorsement.
A solar photovoltaic system that is connected to an electric circuit served by an electric utility company.
[Added 5-3-2025 ATM by Art. 53, AG approval 10-16-2025]
The horizontal area of a lot covered at grade by structures, together with those portions of any overhangs which contain enclosed interior space; excluding, for instance, tents, retaining walls, substantially below grade finished or unfinished space, exterior insulation, decks, unenclosed porches, unenclosed roofed overhangs and connectors, entryway hoods and projections, gazebos, pergolas, play structures, platforms and steps, docks, game playing courts at grade, exterior in-ground residential swimming pools, exterior in-ground or above grade hot tub/spas, chimneys, bulkheads, bay and bow windows, window wells, unenclosed breezeways, air-conditioning units, generators and generator enclosures, mechanical and utility equipment, unroofed walled enclosures, exterior showers, fuel tanks, roof eaves, trash bins, ground-mounted solar, and one or more detached sheds or greenhouses or greenhouse sheds not exceeding an aggregate 200 square feet ground cover, and none taller than 16 feet in height, as measured from the top of the slab, pier, or crawl space foundation(s).
[Added 4-15-2003 ATM by Art. 48, AG approval 8-27-2003; amended 4-5-2014 ATM by Art. 68, AG approval 5-7-2014; 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 8-5-2015; 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 18, AG approval 2-26-2018; 4-1-2019 ATM by Art. 49, AG approval 8-6-2019; 4-1-2019 ATM by Art. 56, AG approval 8-6-2019; 5-6-2023 ATM by Art. 38, AG approval 9-8-2023; 5-7-2024 ATM by Art. 57, AG approval 9-27-2024; 5-3-2025 ATM by Art. 53, AG approval 10-16-2025]
The ground cover upon a lot divided by the area of the lot, expressed as a percentage.
[Amended 4-12-1999 ATM by Art. 29, AG approval 8-10-1999; 4-15-2003 ATM by Art. 48, AG approval 8-27-2003]
A solar photovoltaic system mounted on a rack or pole that is ballasted on, or attached to, the ground and is accessory to the primary use.
Ground-mounted solar energy systems as a primary use are permitted only as described in § 139-12J, Solar Energy Overlay District.
[Added 5-3-2025 ATM by Art. 53, AG approval 10-16-2025]
Liquid hydrocarbon products, including but not limited to residual oil, gasoline, fuel oil, diesel oil and any other toxic, caustic or corrosive chemicals, radioactive materials and other substances defined as being hazardous or toxic by the Massachusetts Division of Hazardous Waste under the provisions of MGL c. 21C and c. 21E.
[Amended 5-4-1993 ATM by Art. 42, AG approval 5-24-1993]
A place or building where massage, beauty treatment, cosmetic procedures, and related activities take place.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
The highest groundwater elevation that is likely to occur at a given location, based on calculations made in accordance with the high groundwater methodology specified in the U.S.G.S. Water Resource Investigations Circular #83-4112 by Frimpter et al., and any subsequent revisions.
[Added 4-14-1997 ATM by Art. 48, AG approval 8-18-1997]
An occupation, trade, profession, or business activity conducted as an accessory use wholly or partly within a dwelling unit or in one or more accessory structures.
[Added 1-8-2001 STM by Art. 5, AG approval 4-10-2001; amended 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009]
Home occupations shall be subject to the following requirements:
The home occupation shall be conducted by occupants of a dwelling upon the lot, and not more than one additional worker who is not an occupant of a dwelling upon the lot.
There shall be no exterior storage of material or equipment, unless effectively screened by a wall, fence or densely planted vegetative buffer.
The gross floor area used in connection with the home occupation shall not exceed 800 square feet, not more than 200 square feet of which shall be used for retail sales.
The home occupation, as projected, shall not generate an average daily traffic generation during the months of June through September that exceeds 14 vehicle trips per day.
A use permit shall be obtained from the Building Commissioner for the home occupation.
There shall be no retail sales except of commodities prepared, crafted or otherwise produced upon the lot.
Special permit relief. A special permit may be granted by the special permit granting authority for a home occupation (including multiple home occupations upon the same lot, collectively) which employs more than one nonresident of the lot, or which conducts retail sales in a gross floor area exceeding 200 square feet, provided that all of the other requirements are met and the criteria for the granting of a special permit under § 139-30 are met, and a home occupation for which a special permit is granted hereunder shall be subject to the provisions for minor site plan review under § 139-23.[9]
A health care facility providing patient treatment with specialized staff and equipment, including, but not limited to, bed-patient care, medical testing facilities, wellness center, rehabilitation facilities, medical offices (i.e., medical clinic), and ancillary facilities customarily associated with a hospital such as a helicopter landing pad, employee housing, maintenance facilities, retail sale of convenience and gift related items, and cafeteria and food services. A hospital shall be exempt from § 139-11.[10]
[Added 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 70, AG approval 8-5-2015]
A building or buildings on a lot containing a commercial kitchen and rental sleeping units without respective kitchens, primarily the temporary abode of persons who have a permanent residence elsewhere.
[Amended 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009]
For the purpose of enforcing the provisions of the Public Wellhead Recharge District, the term "impervious" shall mean those surfaces which will result in little or no infiltration of stormwater through underlying soil layers. Surfaces such as concrete, bituminous concrete, brick, or similar interlocking surfaces which have no interstitial gaps or openings shall be considered impervious. The designated review authority shall determine whether alternative paving surfaces which have interstitial openings can be deemed to reduce the impervious coverage of a lot.
[Added 4-14-1997 ATM by Art. 48, AG approval 8-18-1997]
A structure or lot used in connection with a business for collection, storage, or sale of waste or scrap materials.
[Added 4-5-2014 ATM by Art. 68, AG approval 5-7-2014]
A building for the boarding for pay or hire of four or more dogs.
A business engaged in the decorative and functional alteration, planting, and maintenance of grounds. Such a business may engage in the installation and construction of underground improvements but only to the extent that such improvements (e.g., drainage facilities) are accessory to the principal business and are necessary to support or sustain the landscaped surface of the ground. Exterior storage of equipment and/or materials must be effectively screened by a wall, fence, or densely planted vegetative buffer.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008; amended 6-25-2020 ATM by Art. 52, AG approval 10-27-2020]
A solar photovoltaic system that is structurally mounted on the ground and is not roof-mounted and has a minimum nameplate capacity of 250 kW DC.
[Added 4-1-2019 ATM by Art. 62, AG approval 8-6-2019]
An establishment engaged in the indoor manufacturing, processing, or fabrication of materials or products.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
A building or buildings on a lot containing rental sleeping units without respective kitchens, and not having a commercial kitchen, primarily the temporary abode of persons who have a permanent residence elsewhere.
[Amended 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009]
The rental or leasing of any residential dwelling unit, or portion thereof, in exchange for compensation.
[Added 11-4-2025 STM by Art. 1, AG approval 5-18-2026]
A tract of land in common ownership, including land under water, not divided by a street, which may include multiple parcels of adjacent land in common ownership to the extent necessary to eliminate or minimize zoning nonconformities. However, two or more adjacent parcels in common ownership, each of which complies with all applicable zoning requirements, or each of which has been lawfully improved with one or more dwellings conforming to all applicable zoning requirements, if any, at the time of construction thereof, and each of which parcels was in compliance with area and frontage requirements applicable thereto at the time of such construction, shall be considered to be separate lots for all purposes under this chapter, notwithstanding any subsequently effective amendment to this chapter.
[Amended 4-12-1994 ATM by Art. 50, AG approval 4-29-1994]
The horizontal area of the lot exclusive of any area in a street or private way open to the public use or land seaward of the mean high tide line of any harbor, sound, ocean or estuary. For any lot created after November 14, 1990, 90% of the minimum lot area required for the zoning district in which such lot is situated must be exclusive of areas subject to the protection under the Wetlands Protection Act, MGL c. 131, § 40, not including areas defined as land subject to coastal storm flowage, coastal flooding or inundation, or any area defined as a buffer zone under such statute. In addition, for any lot created after April 5, 2011, the wetlands defined in the local Wetlands Bylaw, Chapter 136 of the Code of the Town of Nantucket, shall also apply, not including areas defined as land subject to coastal storm flowage, coastal flooding or inundation, or any area defined as a buffer zone under such statute.
[Amended 11-13-1990 STM by Art. 16, AG approval 3-19-1991; 5-5-1992 ATM by Art. 36, AG approval 8-3-1992; 4-4-2011 ATM by Art. 60, AG approval 9-15-2011]
A line bounding a lot, including a street line or an interior line which divides the lot from another lot, or a natural boundary line for a lot.
A facility where building materials such as lumber, plywood, drywall, cement blocks, roofing materials, insulation, and the like, including related products such as wallpaper, plumbing and electrical supplies, paint, glass, and hardware, are stored and sold.
[Added 4-2-2013 ATM by Art. 30, AG approval 7-26-2013]
See § 139-11.
A marijuana cultivator, independent testing laboratory, marijuana product manufacturer, marijuana retailer or any other type of licensed marijuana-related business as defined in MGL c. 94G, § 1, and 935 CMR 500.00, unless otherwise defined in this section. Recreational marijuana establishments are subject to the following standards:
[Added 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 2, AG approval 2-26-2018; amended 10-10-2018 STM by Art. 1, AG approval 8-6-2019]
Recreational marijuana establishments shall be located in standalone facilities and shall not be allowed within a building or structure containing other retail, commercial, residential, industrial, or other uses, except for colocation with a licensed medical marijuana treatment center.
A minimum separation of 500 feet, measured between lot lines, is required between recreational marijuana establishments and state-certified public or private schools or state-licensed day-care centers.
Except where co-located, a minimum separation of 2,000 feet, measured between lot lines, is required between recreational marijuana establishments.
No building permit for a recreational marijuana establishment shall issue until the applicant has executed a host community agreement with the Town pursuant to MGL c. 94G, § 3(d).
A recreational marijuana establishment shall be required to obtain an annual certificate of inspection issued by the Inspector of Buildings.
A recreational marijuana retailer must operate and provide all storage within a permanent structure.
A recreational marijuana establishment shall not be eligible for qualification as a home occupation.
On-site consumption of marijuana products is prohibited.
Delivery of cannabis products to consumers is prohibited.
A special permit for a recreational marijuana establishment shall be limited to the applicant at the time of special permit issuance. Any changes to the owner/operator/licensee shall require a new special permit.
A recreational marijuana establishment shall not generate outside odors from the processing or manufacturing of marijuana or marijuana products.
An applicant for a special permit for a recreational marijuana establishment shall obtain a provisional license from the Cannabis Control Commission prior to submitting an application to the Planning Board for a special permit.
An organization, club, lodge, other private grounds allowing on-site consumption of cannabis or marijuana products, but not operating as a licensed marijuana social consumption operator and where no sales occur.
[Added 10-10-2018 STM by Art. 1, AG approval 8-6-2019]
Cannabis or marijuana and its products unless otherwise indicated and as defined in MGL c. 94G, § 1, as may be amended. These include products that have been manufactured and contain cannabis or an extract from cannabis or marijuana, including concentrated forms of marijuana and products composed of marijuana and other ingredients that are intended for use or consumption, including edible products, beverages, topical products, ointments, oils and tinctures.
[Added 10-10-2018 STM by Art. 1, AG approval 8-6-2019]
A premises approved under a medical use marijuana license pursuant to MGL c.94I that acquires, cultivates, processes, transports, sells, distributes, dispenses or administers marijuana for the benefit of registered qualifying patients in the treatment of debilitating medical conditions or the symptoms thereof. Medical marijuana treatment centers are subject to the following standards:
[Added 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 2, AG approval 2-26-2018]
Medical marijuana treatment centers shall be located in standalone facilities and shall not be allowed within a building or structure containing other retail, commercial, residential, industrial, or other uses, except for co-location with a licensed recreational marijuana establishment.
A minimum separation of 500 feet, measured between lot lines, is required between medical marijuana treatment centers and state-certified public or private schools or state-licensed day-care centers.
No building permit for a medical marijuana treatment center shall issue until the applicant has executed a Host Community Agreement with the Town pursuant to MGL c.94G, § 3(d).
A marine establishment which may include, but not be limited to, boat fuel sales, boat sales, boat rental, boat construction, boat maintenance, repair, and incidental painting, and marine equipment sales or rental.
[Added 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009]
The median grade line established between existing grade and finish grade measured along a line four feet from the perimeter of the building or structure, extended four feet beyond the building or structure at each end.
[Amended 4-12-1994 ATM by Art. 55, AG approval 4-29-1994]
A way affording vehicular access to a lot and across the line of the way [or lot line, for lots within the scope of § 139-33E(1)(b) below] and having sufficient width, suitable grades and adequate construction to provide for the year-round needs of vehicular traffic in relation to the way's prospective use and for the installation of utility services.[12]
[Amended 5-5-1992 ATM by Art. 44, AG approval 8-3-1992]
The removal of any geologic material, including but not limited to topsoil, sand, gravel and clay, not to include removal associated with on-site road and building construction.[13]
A commercial use dedicated to exterior or interior vehicular parking. Motor vehicle parking lots or structures that are constructed to meet the off-street parking requirements of § 139-18 of this chapter shall not be considered a separate use from the use requiring the off-street parking.
[Added 4-2-2016 ATM by Art. 60, AG approval 7-12-2016]
Of or by the Town of Nantucket, the County of Nantucket, or any agency, board or department thereof; and specifically including the Nantucket Islands Land Bank.
[Added 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 66, AG approval 8-5-2015]
Shall mean a covenant affecting the title to real property, created pursuant to Chapter 100 of the Code of the Town of Nantucket, which relates to and regulates the terms of the purchase, sale and ownership of real property not held as a condominium (the "NHNC-Ownership Form").
[Added 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009]
Housing for the exclusive use of employers who own or lease space on a lot, for the purpose of housing their employees, their spouses, domestic partners and dependents. A maximum of two dwelling units shall be permitted per lot with occupancy limited to a total of 18 persons. In the R-1, ROH, R-5, R-10, R-20, and R-40 Districts only, there shall be no more than two lots containing neighborhood employee housing or employer dormitory units (conforming or preexisting nonconforming), within a 1,000 foot radius. The Planning Board shall be the special permit granting authority. Site plan review in accordance with § 139-23 and the submission of a dormitory management plan shall be required.
[Added 4-9-2001 ATM by Art. 37, AG approval 8-2-2001; amended 4-2-2013 ATM by Art. 30, AG approval 7-26-2013]
A structure or a use or lot that does not conform to a zoning restriction of this chapter for the zoning district in which it is located, provided that the nonconformity was lawfully in existence on the July 27, 1972, effective date of this chapter, or in the case of a structure, use or lot made nonconforming by an amendment of this chapter, on the effective date of such amendment.[14]
The building, room or building space where the clerical work of a business, trade or occupation, or profession is conducted or where the work of administration is conducted. Commercial office space shall not include any trading in merchandise or manufacturing or fabricating.
An occasional or periodic market held in an open area or in a structure where groups of individual sellers licensed by the Select Board offer for sale to the public such items as fresh produce, seasonal fruits, fresh flowers, arts and crafts items, and food and beverages (but not to include second-hand goods) dispensed from booths located on-site.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008; amended 6-25-2020 ATM by Art. 70, approved 10-27-2020]
A parcel or parcels of land or an area of water or wetlands or a combination of land and water or wetlands, not including streets, set aside in an undeveloped state.
An existing lot, dividable into two lots pursuant to § 139-8C.
[Added 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009; amended 4-2-2016 ATM by Art. 54, AG approval 7-12-2016]
Detached accessory residential structure(s) such as a cabana, barn, hoop barn, shanty, greenhouse, gazebo, playhouse, fitness studio, home office, but not including dwelling units or structures used for habitation, studios, or sheds.
[Added 4-2-2013 ATM by Art. 30, AG approval 7-26-2013]
The primary residence, or temporary (seasonal) residence, of a person(s) or the individual beneficiaries of a legal entity that holds title to the property, where such persons are physically present and living within dwelling units on said property for at least three months each calendar year. Properties owned by corporations and the like, time sharing interval dwelling units, or where all units are made available for rent do not qualify as owner occupied.
[Added 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 62, AG approval 8-5-2015]
Record title to land, as shown upon deeds or other documents of title on file at the Nantucket Registry of Deeds, the Nantucket Registry District of the Land Court, the Registries of Probate, or other applicable public offices.
[Added 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 65, AG approval 8-5-2015]
An area dedicated to the parking of a motor vehicle meeting the requirements of § 139-18.
[Added 4-9-2001 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 9-2-2001; amended 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 8-5-2015]
A group of two or more parking spaces arranged one behind the other where one space blocks access to the other space.
[Added 4-15-2003 ATM by Art. 30, AG approval 8-27-2003]
Establishments providing services generally related to personal non-medical needs, including, but not limited to: beauty and barber, clothing rental, garment repair, and shoe repair shops, tanning salons, photography studios, psychic reading, tattoo or body piercing studio, upholster shop, personal training. These uses may also include accessory retail sales of products related to the services provided. No personal service establishment shall exceed 3,000 square feet of floor area, and the aggregation of such service establishments on a lot (or on contiguous lots in one ownership) shall not exceed 4,000 square feet of floor area.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008; amended 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009; 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 8-5-2015]
A small vessel of less than 16 feet in length which uses an inboard motor powering a waterjet pump or a propeller as its primary source of motive power and that is designed to be operated by a person sitting, standing or kneeling on the vessel rather than the conventional manner of sitting or standing inside a vessel. This term includes jet skis, wet bikes and surf jets.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 49, AG approval 8-18-2008]
An establishment engaged in the retail sale of prescription drugs, nonprescription medicines, home and personal care products, and related supplies.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
A detached single-family dwelling unit or the portion of a structure that contains a single dwelling unit. A primary dwelling may contain an attached garage.[15]
[Added 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009; amended 4-6-2011 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 9-15-2011]
A structure, regardless of whether it, or the lot it is situated on, conforms to zoning, including use requirements and dimensional requirements, such as setbacks, bulk, and height, that contains at least one dwelling unit and is, or will be, located on the same lot as a protected use ADU.
[Added 5-3-2025 ATM by Art. 44, AG approval 10-16-2025]
A retail establishment that provides duplicating services using photocopying, blueprint, and offset printing equipment and may include the collating and binding of booklets and reports.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
An attached or detached ADU that is located, or is proposed to be located, on a lot in a single-family residential zoning district and is protected by MGL c. 40A, § 3, provided that only one ADU on a lot may qualify as a protected use ADU. An ADU that is nonconforming to Zoning shall still qualify as a protected use ADU if it otherwise meets this definition.
[Added 5-3-2025 ATM by Art. 44, AG approval 10-16-2025]
A deed restriction accepted and enforceable by the town of Nantucket, which limits owner-occupancy of a subject lot to the owner of the lot at the time the lot was subdivided into secondary lots, or the owner's spouse, and/or their parent(s), grandparent(s), children, brother(s) and/or sister(s). This deed restriction shall only be released by the Town in the event that an NHNC Ownership Form replaces this restriction.
[Added 4-1-2019 ATM by Art. 48, AG approval 8-6-2019]
The addition of water to the saturated zone of an aquifer.
[Added 4-14-1997 ATM by Art. 48, AG approval 8-18-1997]
Golf courses, tennis, paddle, and racquet courts, bowling alleys, fitness centers, or the like, including any uses ancillary to the recreational facility. In the R-10 District only, the recreational facility may include accessory uses such as a restaurant, catering facility, snack bar, or pro shop that operate independently from the recreational facility.[16]
[Added 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009]
[Added 5-6-2023 ATM by Art. 39, AG approval 9-8-2023]
A structure designed to be used for recreational purposes, either above or below grade, containing water more than 24 inches in depth. This shall not include ornamental ponds, decorative water features, including, but not limited to, fountains, bird baths, and the like. The residential recreational outdoor water feature must be located on the same or contiguous lot as a residential dwelling or constructed for the benefit of a group of residences, such as a multifamily development, subdivision, or in conjunction with a neighborhood association.
Three types of residential recreational outdoor water features may be permitted:
Hot tub/spa: a structure containing less than 100 square feet of surface area designed to be heated and containing seats/benches and jets.
Small swimming pool: a structure containing 150 square feet or less of surface area. May be designed to be heated and may contain seat/benches, jets, or other features, but not including a diving board, slide, or the like.
Large swimming pool: a structure containing more than 150 square feet of surface area. May include any feature, including a built-in hot tub/spa.
In the VR District only, the Zoning Board of Appeals, acting as the special permit granting authority, may grant a special permit to allow a small or large swimming pool on a lot, subject to the following criteria being met: 1) the lot must meet or exceed the minimum lot size for the district, and 2) side and rear yard setbacks of 20 feet shall apply to the residential swimming pool and associated mechanical equipment.
In the R-1, SR-1, R-5, and R-5L Districts only, the following criteria must be met for a small or large swimming pool: 1) a minimum lot area of 7,500 square feet is required, and 2) side and rear yard setbacks of 10 feet shall apply to the residential swimming pool and associated mechanical equipment. This requirement shall apply to residential swimming pools for which a building permit is issued after September 30, 2021.
A WECS designed or operated to provide energy principally to the residence and accessory structures located on the lot, or on contiguous lots held in common ownership. A WECS designed or operated to provide more than 50% of its rated energy production for off-site consumption shall not be considered residential except in cases where such power is consumed by residences of adjacent property or within 1,000 feet, whichever is greater.
[Amended 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 47, AG approval 8-10-2009]
A solar photovoltaic system mounted on a rack that is ballasted on, or is attached to, the roof of a building or structure. Roof-mount systems are accessory to the primary use.
[Added 5-3-2025 ATM by Art. 53, AG approval 10-16-2025]
A detached single-family dwelling unit located on the same lot as a primary dwelling unit. The ground cover of the secondary dwelling shall be a minimum of 20% less or more than the primary dwelling. The secondary dwelling may contain an attached garage. The primary and secondary dwelling must be separated by a minimum distance of 10 feet, measured at grade at the closest point between the dwellings. Relief from the ground cover and scalar separation requirements of this definition may be granted by a special permit issued by the Planning Board subject to a finding that the reduced separation is in harmony with the general purpose and intent of this chapter. A secondary dwelling may only be attached to the primary dwelling by a breezeway.
[Added 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009; amended 4-5-2010 ATM by Art. 56, AG approval 8-5-2010; 4-6-2011 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 9-15-2011; 4-2-2013 ATM by Art. 40, AG approval 7-26-2013; 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 18, AG approval 2-26-2018; 4-3-2018 ATM by Art. 45; AG approval 7-18-2018; 5-3-2025 ATM by Art. 55, AG approval 10-16-2025]
Both dwelling units shall be in the same ownership unless one of the two dwelling units is subject to the NHNC. The ownership of a lot by a condominium cooperative housing corporation, land trust, or other common interest ownership entity in which there is a separate beneficial ownership of the principal and secondary dwellings on the lot shall not be deemed to constitute "the same legal and beneficial ownership." | |
The Planning Board shall make a determination regarding the adequacy of access to the lot and structures prior to the issuance of a building permit. Planning Board approvals granted after April 8, 1996, shall be valid for a period of two years from the date of plan endorsement. | |
The principal purpose of secondary dwellings is to create housing opportunities through the provision of affordable rental housing for year round residents, including senior citizens, while affording the owner of the primary residence with the opportunity to generate supplemental income. The intent of this provision is also that one of the two dwellings be designated and constructed at such scale and bulk so as to be clearly subordinate in both use and appearance. | |
Notwithstanding any language contained herein to the contrary, any property that is owned by a validly created and existing cooperative housing corporation as of December 31, 2012, may be converted to a residential condominium form of ownership, maintaining the separate beneficial ownership of the primary and secondary dwellings, without subjecting such property to the Nantucket Housing Needs Covenant.[17] |
Lots created by the division of the original lot into two lots pursuant to § 139-8C. One of the two lots shall be subject to an NHNC-Ownership Form, or shall be owner-occupied by a qualified family member, in which case the lot shall be subject to the NHNC-Ownership Form, except for the established income and asset limits, or shall be subject to a qualified family member deed restriction.
[Added 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009; amended 4-2-2016 ATM by Arts. 54, 55, AG approval 7-12-2016; 4-1-2019 ATM by Art. 48, AG approval 8-6-2019]
An accessory structure for storage purposes, not designed to be served by heat or plumbing and not to be used for habitation.
[Added 4-2-2013 ATM by Art. 30, AG approval 7-26-2013]
A parcel or parcels of land, a portion of which is located within or abutting the mean high water line of the Atlantic Ocean, Nantucket Sound, Nantucket Harbor, Polpis Harbor, or Madaket Harbor.[18]
[Added 4-13-1998 ATM by Art. 35, AG approval 7-31-1998]
A dwelling unit or portion(s) thereof that is not a transient residential facility, where: (i) at least one room or dwelling unit is rented to an occupant or sub-occupant; and (ii) all accommodations are reserved in advance. Rental periods with a change in occupancy in excess of 31 calendar days shall not be considered a short-term rental. The rental of property for a total of 14 days or less in any calendar year shall not be considered a short-term rental.
[Added 11-4-2025 STM by Art. 1, AG approval 5-18-2026]
All of the equipment, machinery, and structures used for either the primary or accessory purpose of converting, storing or transmitting electricity generated from solar energy.
[Added 4-1-2019 ATM by Art. 62, AG approval 8-6-2019]
A solar energy system that converts solar energy directly into electricity, the primary components of which are solar panels, mounting devices, inverters, and wiring.
[Added 5-3-2025 ATM by Art. 53, AG approval 10-16-2025]
Discarded solid material with insufficient liquid content to be free flowing, including but not limited to rubbish, garbage, scrap material, junk, refuse and inert fill material.
The Board of Appeals except in those matters for which the Planning Board is specified as having jurisdiction under this chapter.
An accessory building in which horses are kept for private use, not for a fee, hire or sale.
An accessory building in which any horses are kept for a fee, hire or sale.
An outdoor container, such as fully enclosed semi-trailers, steel shipping containers, cargo containers, and the like, used for commercial storage of goods and materials that are not registered vehicles themselves or situated on a registered trailer or attached to a registered vehicle. This definition does not apply to registered or unregistered boat trailers, registered vehicles or sheds.
[Added 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 21, AG approval 2-26-2018]
A public way or a way which the Town Clerk certifies is maintained and used as a public way; or
A way shown on a plan approved and endorsed by the Nantucket Planning Board in accordance with the Massachusetts Subdivision Control Law[19] and which has been improved and constructed in accordance with the requirements of such approval; or
A way in legal and physical existence when the Subdivision Control Law[20] became effective on Nantucket on February 1, 1955, which has sufficient width, suitable grades and adequate construction to provide for the needs of vehicular traffic in relation to the proposed use of the land abutting thereon and served thereby, and for the installation of municipal services to serve such land and the buildings erected or to be erected thereon.
[Amended 5-5-1992 ATM by Art. 44, AG approval 8-3-1992; 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 18, AG approval 2-26-2018]
The line separating a street from a lot as duly determined by matters of record.
Anything constructed or erected, the use of which requires a fixed location on the ground. "Structure" shall be construed, where the context allows, as though followed by the words "or part thereof" and shall include, but not be limited to, buildings, retaining walls which support buildings, platforms, antenna towers, steel storage containers, lighthouses, docks, decks, chimneys, tents, ground-mounted solar, and game courts. "Structure" shall not include retaining walls not exceeding four feet in height for landscaping purposes, fences, rubbish bins, underground propane tanks, stairs, access ramps, or platforms that provide the minimum Building Code compliant access to a structure and that extend into the required front, side, or rear yard setback less than a depth of three feet, and within a total area less than 20 square feet on a lot containing less than 40,000 square feet, and a maximum of two aboveground propane tanks not to exceed 120 gallons each.
[Amended 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 63, AG approval 8-18-2008; 4-4-2011 ATM by Art. 58, AG approval 9-15-2011; 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 18, AG approval 2-26-2018; 4-1-2019 ATM by Art. 57, AG approval 8-6-2019; 5-3-2025 ATM by Art. 53, AG approval 10-16-2025]
A building or a room or rooms where an artist, artisan, photographer or the like does his or her work.
Stores where most of the floor area is devoted to the sale of food products for home preparation and consumption, which typically also offer other home and personal care products, and which are substantially larger and carry a broader range of merchandise than convenience stores or pharmacies.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
A structure designed to be used for recreational purposes, either above or below grade, containing water more than 24 inches in depth and exceeding150 square feet of water surface area, or exceeding 1,000 gallons. This shall not include ornamental ponds, decorative water features, including, but not limited to, fountains, bird baths, and the like. The swimming pool may be a primary use or accessory use to a club, recreational facility, transient residential facility, yacht/sailing club, or other commercial use as identified in § 139-7A.[21]
[Added 4-4-2011 ATM by Art. 58, AG approval 9-15-2011]
A commercial establishment, including a food truck, the primary business of which is the sale of food and/or beverages, including but not limited to ice cream, sandwiches, pastries, prepared meals for consumption on or off the premises which is:
[Amended 4-12-1999 ATM by Art. 31, AG approval 8-10-1999; 5-2-2022 ATM by Art. 53, AG approval 10-31-2022]
A designated area within a take-out food establishment where a cash register or other means of taking and processing orders is located.
[Added 3-31-2012 ATM by Art. 56, AG approval 7-12-2012]
A service that offers transportation utilizing three or more motor vehicles to persons, including those who are handicapped, in return for remuneration.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
A portable enclosure constructed of fabric, plastic, or a similar pliable material supported by one or more poles and secured by pegs in the ground. Tents shall not be erected for periods exceeding 30 days per calendar year unless a special permit has been issued by the Planning Board; however, tents which in the aggregate exceed 150 square feet shall not be erected for more than three events per year or periods exceeding nine days per year, whichever is less, on properties where the principal use is residential unless a special permit from the Board of Appeals has been issued based on a determination that the use is ancillary to the residential use of the property and not a commercial use.
[Added 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009; amended 5-2-2022 ATM by Art. 53, AG approval 10-31-2022]
[Added 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 62, AG approval 8-5-2015; amended 4-2-2016 ATM by Art. 51, AG approval 7-12-2016; 4-1-2019 ATM by Art. 49, AG approval 8-6-2019; 5-2-2022 ATM by Art. 50, AG approval 10-31-2022; 5-7-2024 ATM by Art. 40, AG approval 9-27-2024]
The tertiary dwelling shall be in the same ownership as at least one other owner-occupied dwelling unit on the lot, or shall be owned by a not-for-profit, religious, or educational entity, or shall be subject to a restriction limiting occupancy to a year-round household.
A third dwelling unit located on a lot, including the following options:
A garage apartment not exceeding 900 square feet of gross floor area.
A dwelling unit attached to or within a single-family dwelling, duplex, or an outbuilding or a dwelling unit attached to a studio or shed. The ground cover of the existing building shall not increase more than 900 square feet and the dwelling unit shall not contain more than 900 square feet of gross floor area.
A detached building containing not more than 900 square feet of ground cover and not more than 900 square feet of gross floor area.
The Planning Board shall make a determination regarding the adequacy of access to the lot and structures prior to the issuance of a building permit. Planning Board approvals shall be valid for a period of two years from the date of plan endorsement.
A lot created by the division of the original lot into three lots pursuant to § 139-8C. The tertiary lot, in addition to one of the secondary lots, shall be subject to an NHNC-Ownership Form, or shall be owner-occupied by a qualified family member, in which case the lot shall be subject to the NHNC-Ownership Form, except for the established income and asset limits, or shall be subject to a qualified family member deed restriction.
[Added 5-2-2022 ATM by Art. 51,AG approval 10-31-2022]
A dwelling unit or dwelling in which the exclusive right of use, possession or ownership circulates among various owners or lessees thereof in accordance with a fixed or floating time schedule on a periodically recurring basis, whether such use, possession or occupancy is subject to either: a time-share estate, in which the ownership or leasehold estate in property is devoted to a time-share fee (tenants in common, time-share ownership, interval ownership) and a time-share lease; or time-share use, including any contractual right of exclusive occupancy which does not fall within the definition of "time-share estate," including, but not limited to, a vacation license, prepaid hotel reservation, club membership, limited partnership or vacation bond, the use being inherently transient.
A detached structure containing a dwelling unit with less than a total of 500 square feet constructed on a moveable trailer to be attached to a foundation pursuant to a building permit issued in accordance with Zoning Bylaw § 139-26. Only one tiny house unit shall be allowed per lot. The tiny house unit shall not be a recreational vehicle (commonly known as an RV), auto home, shipping container, motor vehicle, semi-trailer, camper, or boat, and shall not be located upon a lot with a commercial or other nonresidential use. The tiny house unit shall be owned by a not-for-profit, religious, or educational entity or shall be the primary residence of a person(s), or the individual beneficiary(ies) of a legal entity, that holds title, common title, or land lease to the property, or any direct family member of that person(s) (their child, parent, grandparent, or brother or sister, or their spouse's child, parent, grandparent, brother or sister). A tiny house unit may be a primary dwelling unit or may be located on a lot in lieu of an otherwise permitted secondary dwelling, garage apartment, or tertiary dwelling. If located on a lot with a primary dwelling, secondary dwelling, or garage apartment, the Planning Board shall make a determination regarding the adequacy of access to the lot and structures prior to the issuance of a building permit. Planning Board approvals shall be valid for a period of two years from the date of plan endorsement.
[Added 4-2-2016 ATM by Art. 52, AG approval 7-12-2016]
The overlay district described in § 139-12E.
[Added 4-9-2002 ATM by Art. 37, AG approval 7-31-2002]
A handling facility where solid waste is brought, stored and transferred from one vehicle or container to another vehicle or container for transport off-site to a solid waste treatment, processing or disposal facility.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 62, AG approval 8-18-2008]
Hotels; rooming, lodging or guest houses; and time-sharing or time-interval-ownership dwelling unit(s). In the ROH District only, rooming, lodging, and guest houses may be allowed by special permit for lots located entirely within a quarter-mile radius of the CDT District.
[Amended 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 47, AG approval 8-10-2009; 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 44, AG approval 8-5-2015]
A facility for the receipt, transfer, short-term storage, or dispatching of goods transported by truck or the storage, service, or maintenance of buses not in active transport of passengers. Included in the use type would be express and other mail and package distribution facilities, including such facilities operated by the U.S. Post Office.[22]
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 28, AG approval 8-18-2008]
An unenclosed appendage, whether roof covered or not, projecting from an exterior wall(s) of a structure. An unenclosed porch may connect portions of a single building, roof, or two or more buildings.
[Added 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 18, AG approval 2-26-2018]
A use which is expressly permitted by this chapter (other than as an accessory use), either with a special permit or without need of one. Principal use shall include the renting or leasing of a dwelling unit, whether for short-term rental or long-term rental.
[Amended 11-4-2025 STM by Art. 1, AG approval 5-18-2026]
Uses and facilities that require direct access to or location in coastal waters and which therefore cannot be located inland, including uses that provide general public access to those waters.
[Added 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 49, AG approval 8-18-2008]
Mechanisms, including all appurtenances thereto, designed or operated for the purpose of converting wind energy to electrical or mechanical power.
A mill operated by the wind's rotation of large, oblique sails or vanes radiating from a shaft, used as a source of power.
Ownership or rental of single-family dwelling units, pursuant to § 139-8E, where at least 25% of the total dwelling units are restricted to occupancy by households earning at or below the percentages of area median income set forth herein. An increment of 75% of the total 25% of the restricted units shall be restricted to occupancy by households earning at or below 80% of area median income. The remaining increment of 25% of the total 25% of the restricted units shall be restricted to occupancy by households earning at or below 175% of area median income.
[Added 11-9-2015 STM by Art. 2, AG approval 12-29-2015]
Rental of multifamily dwelling units, pursuant to § 139-8E, where at least 25% of the total dwelling units are restricted to occupancy by households earning at or below 80% of area median income.
[Added 11-9-2015 STM by Art. 2, AG approval 12-29-2015]
The area of a lot to be kept free of buildings and other structures (except fences, fence gates, landscape retaining walls, mail and lamp posts, utility service poles, and pedestals, lot accessways, and docks, bulkheads, groins and other coastal engineering structures). The setback distance from any required front, side, or rear yard shall be measured from the corner board of the structure, if applicable, or the closest point (excluding the eaves and any exterior insulation) between the structure and the lot line.
[Amended 4-2-2016 ATM by Art. 60, AG approval 7-12-2016; 4-1-2019 ATM by Art. 49, AG approval 8-6-2019]
The yard extending from the street line of a lot inwardly the required front-yard setback distance. For lots abutting two or more streets or ways, whether constructed or not, the required front yard setback shall be maintained from one street or way, and the required side yard setback shall be maintained from each other lot line. For lots abutting one street or way, whether constructed or not, on more than one side or portion thereof, the Planning Board may grant a waiver by special permit to allow the required side yard or rear yard setback to be maintained from such portion of the lot as the Planning Board determines to be consistent with the purpose of this definition.
[Amended 11-13-1990 STM by Art. 22, AG approval 3-19-1991; 5-5-1992 ATM by Art. 45, AG approval 8-3-1992; 4-1-2019 ATM by Art. 59, AG approval 8-6-2019; 5-7-2024 ATM by Art. 41, AG approval 9-27-2024]
The portion of any lot lying between the buildings upon such lot and each lot line other than a line adjoining a street.
Housing that serves as the principal residence of the occupant(s) for at least 10 months per year, whether owner-occupied or rented.
[Added 5-3-2025 ATM by Art. 47, AG approval10-16-2025]
The area of an aquifer which contributes water to a well under the most severe pumping and recharge conditions that can be realistically anticipated. For the purposes of this chapter, the Zone II is coterminous with the Public Wellhead Recharge District established under § 139-12B of this chapter.
[Added 4-14-1997 ATM by Art. 48, AG approval 8-18-1997]
An official of the Town of Nantucket who is responsible for the administration and enforcement of the Nantucket Zoning Bylaw in accordance with the provisions of MGL c. 40A, § 7.
[Added 4-10-2000 ATM by Art. 46, AG approval 8-2-2000]
[1]
Editor's Note: The former definition of "affordable unit" which immediately followed this definition, was replaced by the definition of "inclusionary unit," which is included in its proper alphabetical sequence.
[2]
Editor's Note: The former definition of “assisted-independent-living community,” added 4-10-2000 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-2-2000, which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 9-21-2009 STM by Art. 16, AG approval 12-11-2009.
[3]
Editor’s Note: The definition of "breezeway," as amended, which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 18, AG approval 2-26-2018.
[4]
Editor’s Note: The definition of "capital improvements," which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 8-5-2015.
[5]
Editor's Note: The definition of "construction," which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 4-6-2011 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 9-15-2011.
[6]
Editor's Note: The definition of "CPI," which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 4-6-2011 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 9-15-2011, and the definition of "customary home occupation," which immediately followed was repealed 1-8-2001 STM by Art. 5, AG approval 4-10-2001. See now the definition of "home occupation."
[7]
Editor's Note: The definition of "dormitory housing," added 4-9-2001 ATM by Art. 38, AG approval 8-2-2001, which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 55, AG approval 8-18-2008.
[8]
Editor's Note: The definition of “dwelling,” which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009.
[9]
Editor’s Note: The former definition of "household," which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 8-5-2015.
[10]
Editor's Note: The former definition of "hot tub/spa," which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 5-6-2023 ATM by Art. 39, AG approval 9-8-2023.
[11]
Editor's Note: The former definition of “independent living cottages,” added 4-10-2000 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-2-2000, which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 9-21-2009 STM by Art. 16, AG approval 12-11-2009.
[12]
Editor's Note: The former definition of "medical marijuana treatment center," which immediately followed this definition, was amended 4-5-2014 ATM by Art. 68 to become "registered marijuana dispensary," which was repealed 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 2, AG approval 2-26-2018.
[13]
Editor's Note: The former definition of "motel," which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009. The former definition of "multi-family dwelling," added 4-10-2000 ATM by Art. 33, AG approval 8-2-2000, as amended, which also followed this definition, was repealed 4-2-2013 ATM by Art. 30, AG approval 7-26-2013. The former definition of "moderately priced housing," which also followed this definition, added 4-12-1994 ATM by Art. 48, AG approval 4-29-1994, and amended 4-8-2008 ATM by Art. 29, AG approval 8-18-2008, was repealed 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 8-5-2015.
[14]
Editor’s Note: The definition of "occupied," which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 8-5-2015.
[15]
Editor’s Note: The former definition of “primary lot,” added 4-6-2009 ATM by Art. 27, AG approval 8-10-2009, which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 4-2-2016 ATM by Art. 54, AG approval 7-12-2016.
[16]
Editor’s Note: The former definition of "registered marijuana dispensary," added 4-2-2013 ATM by Art. 30, as amended, which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 11-6-2017 STM by Art. 2, AG approval 2-26-2018. See now the definitions of "marijuana establishment, recreational" and "marijuana treatment center, medical."
[18]
Editor's Note: The former definition of "sign," which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 4-6-2011 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 9-15-2011.
[21]
Editor's Note: The former definition of "swimming pool - residential," as amended, which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 5-6-2023 ATM by Art. 39, AG approval 9-8-2023. See now "residential recreational outdoor water feature," above.
[22]
Editor’s Note: The former definition of "used," which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 4-6-2015 ATM by Art. 64, AG approval 8-5-2015.
B.
Word usage. "Shall" is considered mandatory and not discretionary.