Town Council Zoning and Regulatory Committee 9-9-2026

The Barnstable Town Council Zoning and Regulatory Committee met on September 9, 2026, to continue discussing amendments to Chapter 240, Article 5, Section 240-46 regarding home occupations. The committee focused on refining the zoning ordinance language to better define and regulate home-based businesses, aiming to maintain residential character while providing clearer enforcement guidelines for the building commissioner. Key procurement-related discussions included the introduction of a licensing requirement for home occupations, clarifications on definitions such as "front yard" (proposed to be changed to "frontage yard"), and exemptions for certain activities like shellfishing. The committee also debated removing site plan review requirements for home occupations requiring special permits to reduce barriers for residents. They emphasized the need for enforceable, objective language and discussed potential screening and parking regulations. The committee planned to finalize the draft ordinance for presentation to the Town Council and subsequent public hearings. Future agenda items include addressing commercial vehicle regulations related to home occupations and reviewing a zoning petition for potential upzoning in a residential area.