North Adams City Zoning Code
SECTION 1
AUTHORITY AND PURPOSE.
[Ord. of 1-12-2016]
1.1.
This ordinance is adopted in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 40A of the General Laws, as amended, to regulate the use of land, buildings and structures to the full extent of the independent constitutional powers of municipalities in the general interests of public health, safety and welfare, including but not limited to the following objectives:
1.1.1.
To prevent overcrowding of land, to secure safety from fire, flood, panic and other dangers, to conserve health, to provide adequate light and air, to avoid undue concentration of population, and to lessen congestion in the streets;
1.1.2.
To facilitate the adequate provision of transportation, water supply, drainage, sewerage, schools, parks, open space and other public requirements and to encourage housing for persons of all income levels;
1.1.3.
To encourage the most appropriate use of land throughout the City, including consideration of the recommendations of the Master Plan adopted by the Planning Board;
1.1.4.
To conserve the value of land and buildings, including conservation of natural resources and the prevention of blight and pollution of the environment;
1.1.5.
To preserve and increase amenities by the promulgation of regulations designed to:
(1)
Protect the City's significant environmental features such as floodplains and flood-prone areas, wetlands, rivers, brooks, ponds, water resources, woodlands, areas of scenic beauty and sites and structures of historic importance.
(2)
Preserve the natural, scenic and aesthetic qualities of the community.
(3)
Minimize the adverse effects of development on the City's unique environmental and historic features.
(4)
Further the objectives of the City's Comprehensive Plan.
(5)
Employ cooperatively the various measures taken by the municipal agencies, under diverse legislative authority, including the State Environmental Code, Wetlands Protection Act, subdivision control legislation and the State Building Code, for the protection and enhancement of the City's existing character and in the interests of the City's growth.