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Northampton Partnership backs ordinance to allow residential conversions of qualifying historic accessory structures
Summary
The Partnership voted to recommend Ordinance 25.315, which would permit residential conversions of historic accessory structures built in 1975 or earlier (subject to site plan review and preservation of character‑defining features); a Planning Board public hearing is scheduled Thursday at 7 p.m. (in person and on Zoom).
The Northampton Housing Partnership voted to recommend Ordinance 25.315, a measure that would allow owners to convert qualifying historic accessory structures — such as carriage houses, barns or garages built in 1975 or earlier — to residential use, even if those structures sit outside normal setback areas.
"It adds more flexibility to convert these historic accessory structures to residential use," said the ordinance presenter, who said the language was drafted with Councilor Marissa Elkins and planning staff and had already received a positive recommendation from the Historical Commission. The ordinance requires site‑plan review by the Planning Board, preservation of character‑defining features "to the extent feasible," compliance with building and fire codes, and limits on height (no greater than the accessory‑structure maximum of 20 feet unless the existing building height is taller).
The presenter said a legal study and related disclosures were done to manage conflicts of interest because many officials either own or live next to such structures. He noted a rough inventory finding of approximately 900 structures across residential zones that could be in scope and said opposition is likely primarily from immediate neighbors concerned about proximity to property lines.
Partnership members asked about neighborhoods where conversions might cluster and whether the rule could be used by developers; the presenter emphasized the policy was intended primarily to help homeowners and nonprofits add housing while preserving historic fabric, and that principal structures such as churches were outside the ordinance’s scope. Members discussed whether CPA funds could apply if conversions created affordable units; the presenter said CPA could be considered where criteria are met and if projects include deed‑restricted affordable units.
A motion to recommend the ordinance to the Planning Board was made and seconded; the Partnership recorded an affirmative roll‑call vote and the measure was approved for referral. The presenter announced a Planning Board public hearing Thursday at 7 p.m., to be held both in person (City Council chambers) and on Zoom.
