Day Care Zoning Update

At a glance

What: Land Use Ordinance changes to make day care centers and small day cares permitted in every zoning district except IA and GS, following new state law.
Where it stands: First read only on August 20, 2026; no vote required.
Next: Second read and vote at a later business meeting; the date is not in the minutes.

Redefines day-care center (state-licensed, more than 12 children or adults), small day care (up to 12 persons, in the provider's home) and nursery school (treated as a day-care center).
Permitted use for both types in all districts except IA and GS.
Parking: day-care center one space per staff member plus one per six children; small day care none.
Day care uses follow state licensing minimums, and small day care needs no home-occupation license.
Planning Board said the change should increase the availability of day care in the city.

First read. Reading waived by unanimous consent on Councilor Lind's motion.