Planning Division

Town-wide Master Plan Adopted - April 23, 2025

On April 23, 2025, the Planning Board unanimously adopted the 2025 Town-wide Master Plan. You can view the Master Plan at either of the links below:

The Master Plan was guided and steered by the Master Plan Steering Committee, comprised of individuals from various Town committees and Salem residents at large. Many opportunities for public feedback were provided, including in-person workshops, surveys, public comment cards, etc. 

The Master Plan Steering Committee page hosts all historical documentation of the process, including meeting recordings, presentations, documents, etc. At their final Steering Committee meeting on February 19, 2025, the Committee unanimously voted to recommend to the Planning Board to adopt the Master Plan.

Responsibilities

The primary responsibility of the Planning Division is administering the Town’s land use controls, including subdivision and site plan regulations.  This involves reviewing plans and proposals to make sure they comply with Town regulations, helping applicants, reviewing building permit applications, inspecting sites, answering questions from the public, and working with other Town staff and consultants. We arrange Planning Board, Conservation Commission, and Zoning Board of Adjustment meetings throughout the year, prepare agendas and information packets, attend the meetings, and implement their decisions.

Our other major responsibility is long-range planning for the community.  This involves updating and implementing the Town’s Master Plan, adding or amending regulations to control land development, preparing planning studies, and working on a variety of miscellaneous projects for the betterment of the Town.

  1. How do I find the zoning for my property?
  2. Do I need a permit to fill a low spot on my property?
  3. Do I need a permit to install/repair my dock or retaining wall on the shoreline?
  4. Do I need Planning Board approval for my project?
  5. How can abutters or interested citizens raise concerns about a project to the Planning Board?
  6. How do I submit a citizen zoning petition?
  7. When does the Planning Board meet and what are the submission deadlines/requirements?
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