Common Driveways

Download a Word file of this Bylaw

BYLAW: COMMON DRIVEWAYS BYLAW

MUNICIPALITY: WEST BOYLSTON, MA

DATE ADOPTED: MAY 17, 1999

TEXT OF THE BYLAW

For lots to be used for residential dwelling purposes where adequate access is provided across the frontage, the Planning Board may grant a Special Permit to allow common driveways for no more than (4) lots that meet the zoning requirements. Common drives may be permitted to allow for more efficient traffic flow, to reduce traffic hazards from numerous individual driveways, to consolidate access to lots across wetland resources, and otherwise where, in the Planning Board's judgment, such an arrangement will be more advantageous to the neighborhood than seperate driveways. The applicant shall submit documents, plans, and profiles for approval to the Planning Board to assure compliance with the following standards for common driveways:

1. The maximum grade shall be 12%. The minimum grade shall be 1%, with a 3% maximum grade within 50 feet of its intersection with a street right of way. The minimum centerline radius shall be 45 feet. The maximum length shall be five hundred feet (500 feet), and the angle of intersection with the street right of way shall be no less than 45 degrees.

2. The maximum width shall be 15 feet for the durable surface, with a 3 feet wide gravel shoulder on at least one side. Driveways shall be surfaced with a durable, all season non-dusting material, drained and suitably maintained to the extent necessary to avoid any nuisance by reason of dust, erosion or water flow onto streets or adjoining property.

3. The common driveways shall exit onto the frontage street, and shall be located entirely withing the boundaries of the lots being served thereby.

4. The minimum easement width 24 feet shall be created so that appropriate legal devices (easements of restrictive covenants, etc...) shall be executed and recorded along with the deeds for the lots to assure snow removal, rubbish collection, and liability for the common driveway shall remain perpetually the responsibility of the private parties, or their successors-in-interest.

ll. By modifying the text of Section 5.2.A 1.e by inserting the phrase ,"For non-residential uses in the Business and Industrial Districts" at the beginning of the first sentence.