Planning Board To Hear Zoning Changes Ahead Of Town Meeting In Andover

ANDOVER, MA — The Andover Planning Board will hold several public hearings Tuesday, Feb. 10, on proposed zoning changes that could go before voters at Town Meeting, according to an agenda for the meeting.

One proposal would update the town’s rules for accessory dwelling units, often known as in-law apartments. The change is meant to bring Andover’s local rules in line with state requirements.

Another hearing will focus on the Historic Mill Overlay District. The proposal would remove current lot size rules for properties in that district, giving more flexibility for future projects.

The board will also consider two sign-related changes requested by the Design Review Board. One proposal would limit portable or temporary signs, such as sandwich boards, to 60 days unless the Building Department approves an extension. Another would update the town’s list of banned signs to clearly include certain devices, such as animated, flashing, or exposed neon signs.

In addition to the hearings, the Planning Board will review a wide range of Town Meeting articles tied to the fiscal 2027 budget. Topics include capital projects, school and building maintenance, water and sewer funding, grants, borrowing and other routine financial items.

The board is also scheduled to approve minutes from its Jan. 27 meeting and discuss other planning-related matters.

Town Meeting is scheduled to begin April 28, according to the town's website.