Malden City Council reviews zoning amendments for daycares and parking regulations

On May 15, 2025, the Malden Planning Board convened to discuss significant zoning amendments aimed at updating the city’s regulations to better align with current community needs and development practices. The meeting, which was recorded and live-streamed, highlighted several proposed changes to the city’s zoning code, particularly focusing on site plan reviews for various facilities.

One of the key topics was the proposed amendment to the table of use regulations, which would require site plan reviews for daycare centers, nonprofit schools, and religious facilities across all zoning districts. This change, presented by Councilor Winslow, was described as a necessary technical update to ensure that these uses are subject to the same review processes as other developments. The councilor emphasized that this oversight needed correction to maintain consistency in the city’s planning framework.

The Planning Board also reviewed multiple city council papers related to zoning amendments, including updates to landscaping requirements and regulations concerning off-street parking. Notably, the amendments aim to prohibit parking in landscaped areas and to refine landscaping requirements for residential zones. These changes reflect a growing emphasis on maintaining aesthetic standards and enhancing the urban environment in Malden.

Additionally, the board discussed updates to floodplain ordinances, which include revisions to definitions and regulations in response to new FEMA requirements. This is particularly relevant as communities face increasing challenges related to climate change and flooding risks.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous recommendation from the Planning Board to the city council to approve the proposed amendments. The council is expected to act on these recommendations within 90 days, with a deadline for final decisions set for August 12, 2025. This proactive approach by the Planning Board underscores the city’s commitment to adapting its zoning laws to better serve the community and address contemporary urban challenges.