The Planning Board upon its own initiative may, and upon petition shall, hold public hearings, 14 days public notice of which shall be given, for the consideration of any amendments to the Zoning Map or to the Bylaw and report to a Town Meeting its recommendations as to what action shall be taken. No hearing shall be held or appeals considered for any variation or change of district boundaries except as provided in Chapter 40A, Sections 4 and 5, of the Massachusetts General Laws and amendments or supplements thereto.

Adoption or change of zoning by-laws may be initiated by the submission to the Board of Selectmen of a proposed zoning by-law by the Board of Selectmen, by the Board of Appeals, by an individual owning land to be affected by change or adoption, by request of registered voters of the Town of Dartmouth pursuant to MGL Chapter 39, Section 10, by the Planning Board, or by a regional planning agency.