Environment

Open Space Residential Design Regional Review

Thank you to all those that attended the "Nature-Sensitive Designs for Open Space & Housing" on June 11, 2025!

For additional details and resources related to the workshop, please refer to the Events section below.

Regional OSRD Findings & Bylaw Case Studies

Events

Nature-Sensitive Designs for Open Space & Housing

SRPEDD hosted a regional workshop on June 11 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the Middleborough Library.

The goal of the workshop was to provide a peer-to-peer learning experience focused on different Open Space Residential Design (OSRD) processes—encouraging those who have gone through the permitting process to share insights, and offering participants the opportunity to discuss common challenges and collaboratively brainstorm potential solutions.
SRPEDD presented an overview of its recently completed regional review of OSRD bylaws—funded through the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) FY23 Planning Assistance Grant—which evaluated zoning practices across Southeastern Massachusetts using Mass Audubon's Bylaw Review Tool for Low-Impact Development & Climate-Smart, Nature-Based Solutions. The presentation also included findings from interviews with municipal officials and developers about the challenges and opportunities related to OSRD implementation.
Panelists from Dighton and Middleborough—two communities currently working with SRPEDD to update their OSRD bylaws—shared their experiences. Westport also participated, offering insights into its current OSRD bylaw.
Check out the presentation and resources below: