Frequently Asked Questions

Trick or Treat is always celebrated on Halloween. Suggested Trick or Treat hours are 5:30 - 7:30 pm.

The 50-foot No-Build Zone is regulated under the North Andover Wetlands Protection Regulations (§ 3.4). Construction of any kind is prohibited within 50-feet of the edge of the any wetland resource area, as identified above. Structures include but are not limited to, foundations and footing associated with single-family dwellings, multi-family dwellings, commercial and / or industrial buildings, porches, patios, decks, house additions, building additions, pools, septic systems, and sheds. Driveways, roadways, retaining walls and landscape boulder walls may be allowed in the 50-foot No-Build Zone when no other feasible location or alternative means of access exists.

Typically, the performance bond is released concurrently with the issuance of a Certificate of Compliance (COC). However, you may request a portion of the bond prior to receiving the COC. This requires you to submit a written request and appear before the Conservation Commission at its next scheduled meeting.

The area of land that extends 100 feet horizontally outward from the boundary of any resource area. This area is subject to protection under the MA Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. 131, § 40) and its Regulations (310 CMR 10 - 10.60), and the North Andover Wetlands Protection Bylaw and its Regulations (c.178 of the Code of North Andover).

The applicant should read the section in the Order of Conditions subtitled, 'After Construction' requirements for specific instructions. The applicant must complete a WPA Form 8A Request for Certificate of Compliance accompanied by a current as-built plan(s) that are stamped and signed by a Professional Civil Engineer (P.E) or a Registered Land Surveyor (R.L.S). A written statement from a P.E. or R.L.S. certifying that the work has been conducted as shown on the plan(s) and documents referenced above, and as conditioned by the Commission must also accompany the request

Upon submittal, the Conservation Associate will perform a final site inspection to determine compliance. After the inspection, the request will be placed on the next scheduled meeting.

Once the Conservation Commission approves the request for a COC, the true and attested copy will be sent directly to the applicant. The COC must be recorded at the Essex North Registry of Deeds, 381 Common Street, Lawrence, MA. Their hours of operation are Monday through Friday 8 am to 4 pm. Once you have recorded this document, proof of recording must be submitted to the North Andover Conservation Department.

In 1996 the MA DEP issued this policy to establish clear and consistent guidelines for stormwater management across the state. The standards of this policy, enforced by the Conservation Commission, are intended to prevent untreated discharges to wetlands and waters; preserve hydrologic conditions that closely resemble pre-development conditions; reduce or prevent flooding by managing the peak discharge and volumes of runoff; minimize erosion and sedimentation; reduce suspended solids and other pollutants to improve water quality; and provide increased protection of sensitive natural resources. Since January 2, 2008, MassDEP has applied the Stormwater Management Standards pursuant to its authority under the Wetlands Protection Act, M.G.L.c. 131, § 40, and the Wetlands Protection Act Regulations, 310, CMR 10, when reviewing projects subject to jurisdiction under the Act. Please consult the following link for more information: Massachusetts Stormwater Handbook.

Once all work outlined in the project's Order of Conditions has been completed and all exposed areas are permanently stable against erosion runoff, you may be ready to request a Certificate of Compliance. We encourage the applicants to contact the Conservation Department to schedule an inspection.

The North Andover Conservation Commission protects the following streams and rivers regardless of an intermittent or perennial flow condition: Mosquito Brook, Rocky Brook, Boston Brook, Fish Brook, Cedar Brook, Cochichewick Brook, the Merrimack River, and the Shawsheen River.

Rivers and streams not referenced above or not identified on a USGS map may still have a 200-foot Riverfront Area associated to them, per 310 CMR 10.58.

The applicant should thoroughly read the Order of Conditions, or the Determination of Applicability (whichever is applicable). Once all of the 'Pre-Construction' requirements have been met, contact the Conservation Department to schedule an inspection. It is important to note that the Conservation Department cannot sign off on the building permit unless the applicant has successfully passed the 'Pre-Construction' inspection.

In 1996 the Commonwealth of Massachusetts enacted the Rivers Protection Act. This Act essentially added the protection of "Riverfront Area" to the resource areas protected under the Wetlands Protection Act. The Riverfront Area is generally land (both wet and dry) measured from the mean annual high water line (MAHW) horizontally outward and parallel 200-feet away. This area is subject to protection under the MA Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. 131, § 40) and its Regulations (310 CMR 10 - 10.60), and the North Andover Wetlands Protection Bylaw and its Regulations (c.178 of the Code of North Andover).

The Wetlands Protection Act Regulations defines an abutter as an owner of land within 100 feet of any lot line where a project is proposed. Under the Town of North Andover Wetlands Protection Regulations, an abutter is defined as the owner of land that lies within a 300-foot radius from any lot line of the subject property.

Although the term "wetland" may be specifically defined, many people use it interchangeably with general terms: "conservation land", "protected land", "open space", "special conservation", "drainage area", "the portion of my lawn I cannot mow until August"; the list goes on and on. The Conservation Commission and its related agencies cumulatively consider many of these terms "wetland resource areas" or simply "resource areas". These "resource areas" are discussed briefly in the following questions. A good regulatory definition of the term "wetland", however, may be found in the Federal Clean Water Act as: "those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas." Wetlands range in wetness from areas that are permanently flooded to those that are only saturated or inundated for relatively brief times during the growing season.

The Town's wetland resource areas consist of the following:

1. Any Isolated Vegetated Wetland (IVW) greater than 1,000 s.f. in size;
2. Any Ephemeral (vernal) Pool and Ephemeral (vernal) Pool Habitat;
3. Any vegetated wetlands bordering on any creek, river, stream, pond, or lake;
4. Any bank, beach, marsh, wet meadow, bog, or swamp;
5. Any land under any creek, river, stream, pond, or lake;
6. Any 100-foot Buffer Zone, 50-foot No Build Zone, and 25-foot No Disturbance Zone associated to the wetland areas mentioned above;
7. Any land subject to storm flowage, or flooding by groundwater or surface discharge;
8. And the 200-foot Riverfront Resource Area (RRA).

Wetlands are characterized by using three parameters: soils, vegetation, and hydrology. Soil descriptions provide useful information about drainage characteristics, ranging from excessively drained to very poor drained. Wetland soils are typically classified as poorly drained or very poorly drained.

Plants have evolved adaptations for life in a wide range of wetland conditions resulting in plant species that demonstrate varying degrees of affinity of wet habitats. Some species grow only in habitats that are wet year-round. Most wetland plants tolerate a range of hydrologic conditions and may occur in uplands as well as wetlands.

Hydrology refers to the movement of water within and through a wetland. Hydrologic features such as the frequency, timing, depth, and duration of inundation, water table fluctuations, and the movement of ground and surface water are the driving forces behind all wetland systems. Water in a wetland may be surface water, groundwater, or a combination of the two.

You may contact the Conservation Department to determine if there are any wetlands on your property. Research would be done from the office to find out if there was a previous filing at the specific site that could contain information about wetlands. Staff may be available to inspect the site if specifically requested. However, please keep in mind that conservation staff is not allowed to mark the wetlands in the field. If there are resource areas located on your property and you wish to have the boundaries marked, you must retain a Professional Wetland Scientist to perform a wetland delineation.

Any disturbance of vegetation, including the removal of trees within areas protected by the Wetland Protection Act or the North Andover Wetland Protection Bylaw must be approved by the Conservation Commission. Protected areas include wetland resource areas, 100-foot, 50-foot, and 25-foot buffer zones around these resource areas, and 200-foot wide Riverfront areas around perennial streams. Application procedures may vary widely depending upon the nature of the proposal. Please contact the Conservation Department for further direction at 978-688-9530. If a tree is located within a protected area, but is a hazard to health and safety, please contact the Conservation Department to schedule a site inspection.

There are several local hay bale suppliers.

Disclaimer: This list is not meant to imply endorsement or recommendation by the NACC. The companies listed here are merely those with whom the Commission is aware that may sell and/or install temporary erosion control measures. This list was produced to meet frequent requests from the public who ask where erosion controls can be purchased. The Commission in no way guarantees services provided by these companies.

Vernal (meaning spring) pools, also known as ephemeral pools, are unique wildlife habitats, which have become an increasingly rare type of wetland in Massachusetts. Due to their sensitivity, vernal pools and the surrounding areas are protected under the MA Wetlands Protection Act, as well as the North Andover Wetlands Protection Bylaw. Vernal pools provide critical habitat for amphibians and invertebrate animals, such as the wood frog (Rana sylvatica), blue-spotted salamander (Ambystoma laterale), Blanding's turtle (Emydoidea blandingii), and spotted turtle (Clemmys guttata). A vernal pool is a confined basin that typically fills with water in the autumn or winter due to rising groundwater and rainfall. The water remains ponded throughout the spring, until the water dries up in the summer months. Many amphibians and invertebrate species rely on vernal pools for their breeding, feeding, and shelter purposes. For that reason, vernal pools are essential for the continued survival of the wildlife species that are dependent upon this rare and threatened resource area.

In North Andover alone, there are approximately 65 certified vernal pools. The Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) have certified these pools. NHESP has provided the Conservation Department with an updated map, which depicts the locations of all certified vernal pools, as well as areas designated as estimated habitat. You may view this map at any time at the Conservation Department.

You can do many things:

1. Remove trash and bottles by hand from a wetland resource area.
2. Dispose of yard waste off-site, such as the Cyr's Recycling Center, located on Sharpners Pond Road, or set up a compost pile greater than 25 feet from the wetland resource area. Leaves and grass clippings will decompose to become your best soil. However, if yard waste is disposed of within the wetland resource area or within the 25' No-Disturbance Zone, it will be considered a violation under the local Wetlands Bylaw. If observed by the Conservation Department, it will be required to be removed by hand. Yard waste within a wetland resource area is considered fill and is strictly prohibited.
3. Near the resource area, set up a small brush pile or two made of branches from yard waste. Brush piles make good wildlife cover. However, in general, brush piles should not be deposited in wetland resource areas as a means of disposal.
4. Do not dump motor oil into street drains. What goes into the drains and the ground in North Andover eventually goes into the Merrimack River, and, in many areas, our drinking supply water, Lake Cochichewick. Proper disposal of oil is available at the store where you purchased it. You may also contact the North Andover DPW at 978-685-0950 or visit their website for a complete list and schedule of recycling and hazardous waste: Division of Public Works
5. Do not dump anything that pollutes.
6. Avoid or minimize the use of de-icing salt near resource areas and drainage systems. Many stores carry more nature-friendly alternatives.
7. Avoid or minimize the use of fertilizers and poisons near resource areas and drainage systems. Some fertilizers can cause algae blooms in our surface waters. Some poisons can impact the plants and wildlife in the resource areas. Fertilizers utilized for landscaping and lawn care shall be slow-release, low-nitrogen types (5% or less), and shall not be used within 25 feet of any resource area.
8. Make use of dry wells for drainage to avoid heavy runoff into our watercourses from roofs and paving. The use of dry wells also recharges the groundwater table by infiltrating rainwater.
9. Maintain your septic system properly. Contact the North Andover Health Department for more information on proper septic system maintenance, such as pumping needs and the impacts of chemicals and hazardous wastes on important system microorganisms.
10. When washing your car, direct the rinse water away from wetland resource areas and drainage systems.
11. If you have an underground storage tank for home heating oil, have it tested to ensure it is not leaking through the soil and into the groundwater? Please click here for additional tips for avoiding a heating oil leak or spill provided by MA DEP.
12. Talk to your neighbor if he/she is inadvertently impacting a resource area
13. Report violations to the Conservation Department

The 25-foot No-Disturbance Zone is also regulated under the North Andover Wetlands Protection Regulations (§ 3.4). No activity is permitted within the 25-feet of the edge of the wetland resource areas, as identified above. Activities include, but are not limited to, grading, landscaping, vegetation clearing, filling, dumping, excavating, and road construction. The North Andover Conservation Commission (NACC) adopted this standard because the alteration of land immediately adjacent to a wetland is likely to result in the alteration of the wetland itself. Alterations typically result from siltation, over grading, deposition of construction debris, unregulated filling, vegetation clearing, extension of lawns, or the depositing of yard waste.

Do not attempt to deal with any violators yourself, as some violators may engage you in a confrontation. Do call the Conservation Office at 978-688-9530 or the North Andover Police Department at 978-683-3168 to report what you have seen and ask that the Conservation Department investigate the situation. Document important information such as motor vehicle license plates, time, date, description of the violator (s), or any information that would be helpful in the apprehension of these lawbreakers.

The Health Department is responsible for the enforcement of the State Sanitary and Environmental Codes, the reporting and control of diseases dangerous to the public health, and the enforcement of other applicable state and local laws and regulations created to protect the health of all citizens.

View the Health Department's responsibilities.

Healthcare Facilities

• Directory of Massachusetts Health Care Providers
• Lawrence General Hospital
• List of all Massachusetts hospitals

The Board generally meets on the second Tuesday of each month in the Superintendent's Meeting Room at 566 Main Street.

No. Anonymous complaints are accepted and investigated.

Call the North Andover Health Department at 978-688-9540.

A restaurant inspected and approved by the Health Department must have the annual permit visible to the public.

Food service inspections are done twice a year.

When handling ready-to-eat foods, such as a sandwich, cooked pizza, or donuts, no bare-hand contact is allowed. No bare-hand contact can be accomplished with the use of utensils, waxed paper, or single-service gloves.

First, contact your health care provider. Then, contact the local health department where the restaurant is located and provide as much information as possible regarding the suspected illness to better assist with investigating your complaint. If the restaurant is located in North Andover call the Health Department at 978-688-9540.

View a listing of North Andover Health Department Regulations, Permits & Application forms.

Visit the EPA website for information on lead removal and renovations.

The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) provides information on H1N1 Flu and the Seasonal Flu including basic facts, prevention, treatment, and vaccination.

Ask your primary care physician regarding Flu Clinics.

Also, each Fall flu clinics are scheduled at the North Andover Health Department and the dates are posted on the town website, cable station, and newspapers.

Information regarding school immunization requirements can be found at the: Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

No. The Health Department does not keep a record of childhood immunizations. We recommend contacting the child's pediatrician for that information.

Contact The Public Health Nurse at 978-688-9540 for information.

Contact the Public Health Nurse at 978-688-9540 for information.

Contact the Public Health Nurse at 978-688-9540 for information.

Contact the Public Health Nurse at 978-688-9540 for information.

Lead-based paints were banned for use in housing in 1979 but all houses built before 1978 are likely to contain some lead-based paint. However, it is the deterioration of this paint that causes a problem. The Massachusetts Lead Law "requires the removal or covering of lead paint hazards in homes built before 1978 where any children under six live. Lead paint hazards include loose lead paint and lead paint on windows and other surfaces accessible to children. Owners are responsible with complying with the law. This includes owners of rental property as well as owners living in their own single family home. Financial help is available through tax credits, grants and loans." - MDPH

"Title 5 of the State Environmental Code, 310 CMR 15.000, is a regulation that protects you and your community. Title 5 requires the proper siting, construction, and maintenance of all on-site wastewater disposal systems. On-site systems that are not properly located and maintained can contribute pathogens and nutrients to surface and ground waters, endangering drinking water supplies, wildlife habitat, and surface water bodies." - MDPH.

To get a Title V inspection hire a state and local licensed system inspector:

• List of licensed inspectors
• More information on Title V rules and regulations

Contact the North Andover Health Department at 978-688-9540.

Plans can be found at the North Andover Health Department.

For further information visit the DEP website.

On average depending on the use, septic systems should be pumped every three to four years. However, if your kitchen has a garbage disposal, your system should be pumped yearly.

Contact a design engineer who will design a new septic system based on the total number of bedrooms for residential properties. The design of the septic system is a multi-step process that usually involves a survey of your property, a soil and percolation test, and a sketch of your house floor plan all of which can take up to two to three months depending on your engineer's schedule, the backlog of scheduled soil tests, and the review of the final septic plan by the Health Department. The Health Department is available to guide you through this process.

View a list of licensed septic installers.

Yes. In 1997, the legislature passed legislation allowing an income tax credit for septic system repairs for homeowners of residential properties. The total amount of tax credit allowed per tax year is $1500, although any excess credit amount may be applied in the three tax years following the first credit. More information may be obtained through your personal tax preparer or through the Massachusetts Department of Revenue.

All nuisance wildlife problems in the state of Massachusetts are handled by private wildlife control companies. Wildlife control companies are similar to pest control companies except that they deal with wild animals such as bats and squirrels instead of insects.

You can also contact the local Animal Control at 978-683-3168.

View information on preventing tick and mosquito-borne illnesses from the Massachusetts Health and Human Services Department.

The town of North Andover mosquito program does not include private property spraying.

As of 2009, Health Departments no longer pick up or account for dead birds since so few birds are still susceptible to fatal West Nile Virus infections. If you have any questions about West Nile Virus you can call the Massachusetts Department of Public Information toll-free at 1-866-MASS-WNV (627-7968).

You can also view the "Frequently Asked Questions about Dead Birds and West Nile Virus".

No, the Board of Health is not responsible for road-kill.

Discuss your options by calling the North Andover Health Department at 978-688-9540.

No.

No.

Yes, for more information or to obtain a copy call the North Andover Health Department at 978-688-9540.

If you believe you or someone else has been exposed to rabies contact your health care provider immediately. Also, find links from the Department of Public Health that may be helpful.

View the State Housing Regulation Requirements and the State Sanitary Codes for more information.

The State Housing Code requires that the heating system be capable of maintaining the temperature daily at 68 degrees from 7 am to 11 pm, and 64 degrees from 11:01 pm to 6:59 am during the heating season.

Hire a state-licensed well driller who will apply for a permit at the local health department. Irrigation wells are not allowed by health regulations in the Lake Cochichewick watershed.

No permanent structures are allowed on septic fields.

Contact the North Andover Water Treatment Plant at 978-688-9574.

Yes, the pond is tested weekly while open for the summer. Results will be posted at the guard shack at the pond.

You can use the Report It! tool or contact the North Andover Department of Public Works at 978-685-0950.

The town recycling site is now located at 210 Holt Road at TBI 978-686-2020. Annual hazardous waste days are TBA.

Needles and sharps can be brought to the North Andover Fire Department at 795 Chickering Road. There is no charge for disposal but everything must be in a sealed container such as a detergent bottle. Old medications can be brought to the North Andover Police Department at 1475 Osgood Street.

Complaints

• Complaints regarding food establishments, dumpsters, and rental housing can be made to the North Andover Health Department at 978-688-9540.
• Submit complaints regarding Professional Licensures (PDF)
• Submit complaints regarding nursing homes or other healthcare facilities (PDF)

No, Veterans Agents work for the Towns or Cities where they are located. They deal with benefits which are covered under MGL Chapter 115. These benefits are shared by The Commonwealth and The Towns of North Andover and Boxford.  For those who qualify there are several possibilities. Some get a monthly check, fuel assistance, medical assistance, prescription co-pay, doctor co-pay.

No. There are several factors that are taken into account. Some of these factors include income, the number of assets you own, and the amount you pay for rent or mortgage. If you are living in a mortgage-free situation your monthly shelter expense is calculated using water and sewer bills, homeowners insurance, property tax, and a fifty dollar monthly allowance for maintenance. If you pay for your own heat you may also be eligible for a fuel allowance.

Under Chapter 115 of Massachusetts General Laws (M.G.L ch. 115), the Commonwealth provides a uniform program of financial and medical assistance for veterans and their dependents. Qualifying veterans and their dependents receive necessary financial assistance for food, shelter, clothing, fuel and medical care in accordance with a formula that takes into account the number of dependents and income from all sources.

Current Monthly Income Limit (as of July 2023)

• Single: $2,430
• Married: $3,287

Current Asset Limit (as of July 2022)

• Single $8,400
• Married $16,600

Find out if you are eligible by emailing Veterans Services (if you live in North Andover or Boxford), or by contacting the Veteran Service Officer for the town in which you live (find your Veterans Service Officer) and asking to apply for Chapter 115 benefits. Eligible veterans and/or their family members must meet certain income criteria and their military experience must meet the Commonwealth's requirements.

Chapter 115 benefits are not taxable income. You must report this income when applying for or renewing subsidized housing applications, Section 8 applications, and SNAP applications.

You must apply for Chapter 115 in the town in which you reside.  Each town in the Commonwealth has a Veteran Service Officer . View a listing of Veteran Service Officers by town.

North Andover is considered an "MBTA Adjacent Community" due to its location directly next to the communities of Andover, Haverhill, and Lawrence, which are all served by the MBTA's Commuter Rail. In order to comply with the State law, North Andover must create a zoning district that adheres to the following requirements:

• Minimum of 50 acres or 1.5% of developable land, whichever is less (see note)
  • North Andover's district will comply with the 50-acre minimum
• Must allow for a minimum of 15 units per acre
• Must have a capacity for multifamily units equal to either 10% of the community's entire housing stock, or equal to the unit capacity in the district given the 15 units/acre requirement, whichever is greater (See note)
  • (See note) North Andover's housing stock is 11,914, which is drawn from the 2020 U.S. Census. The Town is required to zone for (not produce) a minimum of 1,191 units, which is 10% of North Andover's housing stock.
• District should have reasonable access to a transit station

Note: It is important to emphasize that the State law is a zoning mandate and not a production mandate. In other words, the Town is required to create a zoning district that adheres to the above parameters but is not required to ensure that new multi-family units are actually produced. It is incumbent upon private property owners and/or developers to put forward proposals to develop multi-family housing projects within any future MBTA Communities compliant zoning district. Those proposals will require plan review and approval by the Town's Planning Board and will be required to adhere to any other applicable local approval processes (i.e. Conservation Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, etc.).

After publicly engaging and conferring with the Select Board and Planning Board, Town staff in partnership with regional planning agency the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC), is proposing to locate a compliant MBTA Communities zoning district in two locations:

1. 1600 Osgood Street (Osgood Landing)
2. 350 Winthrop Street ("Market Basket Plaza" / North Andover Mall)

To learn more about why these locations were identified, scroll down to the "Outreach and Public Engagement Section". You may view the various recordings of public meetings that informed the decision to focus on these areas, which goes into more detail.

To learn more about why these locations were identified, view the "Outreach and Public Engagement Section". You may view the various recordings of public meetings that informed the decision to focus on these areas, which goes into more detail.

As an MBTA Adjacent Community, North Andover is required to comply with this State law by the end of calendar year 2024, which means that the Town is targeting the approval of a Zoning Bylaw amendment to achieve compliance at Annual Town Meeting 2024 (May 2024).

On March 15, 2023, Massachusetts' Attorney General Andrea Campbell issued an Advisory concerning the enforcement of the requirements imposed on cities and towns by Chapter 40A, Section 3A. The Attorney General's Advisory states "All MBTA Communities must comply with the Law." In addition, the Advisory cautions that "Communities that fail to comply with the Law may be subject to civil enforcement action" and, "Communities that fail to comply with the Law's requirements also risk liability under federal and state fair housing laws. The Law requires that MBTA Communities "shall have" a compliant zoning district and does not provide any mechanism by which a town or city may opt out of this requirement."

As has been widely publicized, Attorney General Campbell in late February of 2024 filed a lawsuit against the Town of Milton for failure to comply with the MBTA Communities Law.

The law requires that an MBTA community shall have at least one zoning district of reasonable size in which multi-family housing is permitted as of right, and that meets other criteria set forth in the statute. Failure to comply with the law results in a loss of eligibility for the community, for certain funding programs.*

*In recent years, the Town of North Andover has been awarded over $6.3 million from some of these programs, in order to fully or partially fund priority projects, such as:

• MassWorks Infrastructure grants in 2017 and 2019, totaling $5 million for creation of new sidewalks and pedestrian infrastructure along Route 125 in front of the Princeton North Andover development, and for installation of new sewer service along Route 125, from Sutton Street to the Haverhill line, as well as additional improvements.
  • Just last year (October 2023), the Town was awarded another MassWorks Grant, totaling $1,240,000 to reconstruct and improve the intersection of Route 124 (Osgood Street) and Great Pond Road.
• Housing Choice Action Grants totaling over $140,000 for planning projects related to rezoning downtown and reusing the former senior center behind Town Hall.

The State has already begun to enforce this penalty as it announced in late February of 2024 that it revoked a $140,800 grant that it had previously awarded to the Town of Milton due to the Town's noncompliance with the MBTA Communities Law.

The 15 units per acre standard is less dense than most multi-family developments in North Andover. For context:

• 90 Sutton Street is 29 units per acre
• 149 Main Street (former Santander Bank property) was recently approved by the Planning Board as a 38-unit-per-acre project
• Avalon Bay (High Street) is 18 units per acre
• Princeton Properties (Route 125) is 21 units per acre

The proposed Zoning Bylaw amendment would govern an overlay district over Osgood Landing (1600 Osgood Street) and North Andover Mall ("Market Basket Plaza" - 350 Winthrop Avenue).

Osgood Landing (1600 Osgood Street) is approximately 58 acres and North Andover Mall (350 Winthrop Avenue) is approximately 35 acres, for a total of approximately 93 acres.

The locations of the MBTA Multi-Family Overlay District were selected based on a number of factors and after both broad public engagement and public engagement with the Select Board and Planning Board. Osgood Landing is larger than the required 50 acres, but Town stakeholders thought it prudent not to concentrate as-of-right multi-family zoning at one location in town. Also, the Town does not have the ability to zone only a portion of the selected parcels for the purposes of complying with the State's zoning mandate, because the State's model that gauges compliance will only accept whole parcels.

Several factors were considered, but chief among them were:

Acreage / developable land (the Town is required to provide a compliant district of at least 50 acres)

Because North Andover is an "Adjacent Community" it is required to have a minimum multi-family unit capacity within its MBTA Communities compliant zoning district that equals at least 10% of its total housing stock as of the 2020 U.S. Census, which is 11,914. Therefore, North Andover must provide zoning that can accommodate at least 1,191 units of as-of-right multi-family housing.

The Town's proposed MBTA Multi-Family Overlay District Bylaw defines an "As-Of-Right Project" as: A Development Project of townhouse(s) and/or multi-family residential homes; and possibly other allowable nonresidential Use(s)..., but without recourse to a special permit, variance, zoning amendment, waiver, or other discretionary zoning approval. All As-Of-Right Projects must contain an allowable residential component.

No.  Because the proposed Zoning Bylaw amendment is an overlay district, all underlying zoning would remain in place.  Therefore, any existing uses (office/commercial, retail, supermarket, etc.) would still be allowed. 

Yes. District Compliance is achieved when an MBTA community adopts a multi-family zoning district that meets all the requirements of the compliance guidelines and is certified by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC). The deadline for North Andover to submit a compliance application to EOHLC is December 31, 2024. That is why the Town is bringing forward a Zoning Bylaw amendment that it intends to be compliant with the State's guidelines for MBTA Communities at Annual Town Meeting on May 14, 2024.

As an MBTA Adjacent Community, North Andover is required to comply with this State law by the end of calendar year 2024. The State has made it clear that it will enforce the MBTA Communities Law: On March 15, 2023, Massachusetts' Attorney General Andrea Campbell issued an Advisory concerning the enforcement of the requirements imposed on cities and towns by Chapter 40A, Section 3A. The Attorney General's Advisory states "All MBTA Communities must comply with the Law." In addition, the Advisory cautions that "Communities that fail to comply with the Law may be subject to civil enforcement action" and, "Communities that fail to comply with the Law's requirements also risk liability under federal and state fair housing laws. The Law requires that MBTA Communities "shall have" a compliant zoning district and does not provide any mechanism by which a town or city may opt out of this requirement."

As has been widely publicized, Attorney General Campbell in late February of 2024 filed a lawsuit against the Town of Milton for failure to comply with the MBTA Communities Law.

The State has also made it clear that failure to comply with the law will result in a loss of eligibility for the community, for certain funding programs. In recent years, the Town of North Andover has been awarded over $6.3 million from some of these programs, in order to fully or partially fund priority projects, such as:

1. MassWorks Infrastructure grants in 2017 and 2019, totaling $5 million for the creation of new sidewalks and pedestrian infrastructure along Route 125 in front of the Princeton North Andover development, and for the installation of new sewer service along Route 125, from Sutton Street to the Haverhill line, as well as additional improvements.
   1. Just last year (October 2023), the Town was awarded another MassWorks Grant, totaling $1,240,000 to reconstruct and improve the intersection of Route 124 (Osgood Street) and Great Pond Road.
2. Housing Choice Action Grants totaling over $140,000 for planning projects related to rezoning downtown and reusing the former senior center behind Town Hall.

The State has already begun to enforce this penalty as it announced in late February of 2024 that it revoked a $140,800 grant that it had previously awarded to the Town of Milton due to the Town's noncompliance with the MBTA Communities Law.

Yes. Town Staff began working with its consultant, the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC), in 2022 in order to develop an approach to how the Town could comply with the State's MBTA Communities Zoning mandate. Since that time, there have been at least 16 public meetings in which MBTA Communities / Section 3A Compliance has been discussed. See the "Outreach and Public Engagement" section to learn more about the Town's approach to seeking public input for this effort. Additionally, you may view recordings of public meetings/hearings on this topic and materials that were presented at those meetings.

Do you have additional questions? Please email the Planning Director Jean Enright or call 978-688-9535.

Rope, cable, giant staples, and lumber are the building blocks for a challenge course. When carefully assembled they become the elements of the high and low challenge course. Each set of elements is designed to provide specific experiences for groups that highlights: teamwork, leadership,  problem solving, goal setting, conflict management, communication, and risk-taking. 

North Andover Youth and Recreation Services owns and operates a state of the art high and low challenge course located in 50 acres of the town forest of North Andover, Massachusetts.   This stunning course receives yearly inspections by North East Adventures, LLC.

Our staff is trained in challenge course management and first aid. They are highly energetic individuals who have a passion for experiential education and are dedicated to creating programs which meet the goals of our clients. Ryan Chasse, who manages our course, is trained in challenge course management.

Low Challenge Course

The low challenge course supports problem solving activities. Success on the course does not depend on strength and fitness. Instead, individual success depends on a willingness to try something new and an ability to work  cooperatively to solve problems. Elements are designed to create a sense of accomplishment while individuals tackle the challenges presented. Facilitators are trained to handle all aspects of group dynamics, encouraging self-discovery and meaningful interactions.

High Challenge Course

Something happens when a person is no longer earth bound. The excitement of tackling a series of elements suspended 20-40 feet in the air while wearing a helmet and harness attached to a rope can be life transforming. The high elements allow participants, individually  or in pairs, to stretch their limits and take a controlled risk by relying on  teammates to secure the rope and verbally encourage them. Individual success on the high challenge course is measured simply by the thrill of experiencing the activity.

• School and Religious Groups
• Recreational Groups
• Business Groups
• Rehabilitation Groups
• Camps
• Birthday Parties
• Special Needs Populations

A one day program generally runs 6 to 7 hours. We also run ongoing programs that may run for months.

Challenge courses are most beneficial when working with a small group of 8 to 15 participants. We can be flexible to meet the needs of larger or smaller groups.

Copies of records can be obtained in person at the Records Department of the North Andover Police Department during normal business hours. Business hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday 8 am to 4:30 pm, Tuesday 8 am to 6 pm, and Friday 8 am to noon. Alternatively, you may email the Record Department directly to request records.

The Records Department is located in the front lobby of the North Andover Police Department at 1475 Osgood Street, North Andover, Ma. Records requests can also be made via mail, a Records Request Form should be filled out and sent to the records office. This will expedite your request.

No, under state law certain records are not available. Examples of records which are not available include:

1. Accidents or incidents involving criminal charges, which may result in incarceration and have not been adjudicated.
2. Accidents or incidents, which are still under investigation.
3. Records, which are expressly prohibited from disclosure to the public by statute.
4. Arrest records. You may acquire a copy of your record from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Criminal History System's Board. Forms for such a request are available at the North Andover Police Department, or information may be visiting their website.

If the record is a public record and it is in our files, you may usually pick it up or have it emailed to you the next business day. Unusually lengthy records or photographs may take longer.

Requests or photographs are made through the same means as copies of records. Please contact the Records Office for a quote on the cost of photographs or having a photo(s) on computer disks.

First, please call the Records Division Supervisor at 978-683-3168. If, after doing so, you still believe you have been denied information you are entitled to, you may call the Secretary of the Commonwealth's Public Records Division at 617-727-2832 or visit their website.

You can check for updates on the civil service exam on their webpage. Or, contact them directly at 617-878-9700.

No, however, the appointing authority, who is the Board of Selectmen, does observe a resident preference. A resident will be considered over a non-resident especially if all other qualifications are equal. Click on the links for Massachusetts Civil Service Laws M.G.L. Chapter 31 or the Massachusetts Human Resource Department.

Under Civil Service Laws it can be allowed. Keep in mind that you will have to take the civil service exam with all other applicants. See above for more information regarding the exam. However, the Board of Selectmen has never elected to staff the police department by this means.

No, the Department doesn't hire interns for temporary employment. The Department will provide non-paying internships for college students who need to complete course requirements. Contact the Chief's Office: by calling 978-683-3168.

At this time NAPD does not have a Cadet or Police Explorer program.

Please contact the Chief of Police Charles Gray at 978-683-3168 for an appointment. Tours are given on a limited basis and are available to small youth groups, business organizations, and neighborhood groups.

You can request crime statistics by sending a written request to:

Detective Lieutenant Michael J. Davis
Criminal Investigation Division
North Andover Police Department
1475 Osgood Street
North Andover, Massachusetts 01845 (or)
Send an email

You may also fax your request to 978-681-1172. Please include your name, phone number, address, fax number if applicable, and reason for your request.

In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the police department may not obtain background checks on individuals as a public information request. This is called CORI - Criminal Offender Records Information and it is against the law for the police department to give out such information. However, you may call the Criminal History Board at 617-660-4600 for more information on how to obtain a criminal check on an individual.

Coming soon!

If the incident occurred in the Town of North Andover, you should immediately call the North Andover Police Department at 978-683-3168. If the incident just happened, for example, if your wallet was stolen, you should dial 911 for an immediate response. If you were not in the Town of North Andover at the time of the incident, you should contact the police department of that jurisdiction.

Please see the requirements here Firearms Application Process

You may call or email Officer Michael Reardon with questions.

For an LTC, the minimum age requirement is 21 years of age. For an FID, the minimum age requirement is 15 years of age, and must be accompanied by a written letter of approval by a parent up until the age of 18. All applicants must pass a criminal record check and have no felony convictions. There are also other restrictions that can be discussed at the time that you meet with the Firearms Licensing Officer.

You must contact the Massachusetts State Police for more information if you are not moving to the Town of North Andover.

You must apply for a Massachusetts firearms license as soon as possible at the North Andover Police Department. See item #12 for more details. Applications and criteria are available at the police station.

The transporting of a firearm is controlled by the Volker-McClure Act of 1986, United States Code Annotated - Title 18 Criminal Procedure Part I - Crimes - Chapter 44 - Firearms, 18 USCA Section 926A - Interstate Transportation of Firearms

"Notwithstanding any other provision of any law or any rule or regulation of a State or any political Subdivision thereof, any person who is not otherwise prohibited by this chapter from transporting, shipping, or receiving a firearm shall be entitled to transport a firearm for any lawful purpose from any place where he may lawfully possess and carry such firearm to any other place where he may lawfully possess and carry such firearm if, during transportation, the firearm is unloaded, and neither the firearm nor any ammunition being transported is readily accessible or is directly accessible from the passenger compartment of such transporting vehicle: Provided, that in the case of a vehicle without a compartment separate from the driver's compartment the firearm or ammunition shall be contained in a locked container other than the glove compartment or console."

For an application and more information about obtaining a firearms license in North Andover please visit our Resource Center.

A hearing will be held before a magistrate of the court. The magistrate will listen to testimony from the police officer who issued the citation and your testimony. The magistrate will then render a finding of "responsible," a guilty finding or "not responsible," a not guilty finding.

No. All patrol Officers, however, have a responsibility to enforce traffic laws to ensure the smooth flow of vehicular traffic and the safety of pedestrians that use the Town's roadways.

There is no fine associated with a warning, however, should you receive three separate warnings within one year, the Registry of Motor Vehicles has the option of suspending your driver's license.

No. There is no procedure to contest a citation warning.

When there is over $1,000 in total accident damages and/or personal injury.

You will need all the information from their operator's driver's license and vehicle registration. For more information, visit our Auto Accident Center.

Call the police immediately, and if possible, do not move the vehicle.

Please follow the following steps:

1. Send one copy of your Commonwealth of Massachusetts Operator's Report of Motor Vehicle Accident Form, to the police department in the city or town where the accident occurred.
2. Send the original to the Registry of Motor Vehicles.
3. Your insurance company may also want a copy.
4. Be sure that you keep a copy for your own records.

You have five business days to file your accident report.

You can pay a parking ticket at the North Andover Town Hall, 120 Main Street at the Tax Collector's window or mail your payment.

To contest your parking ticket you must submit your appeal in writing to be received within 21 days of the ticket. Appeals received later than 21 days after the original ticket date will be denied.
Appeals may be sent by mail to: 

Parking Clerk
North Andover Town Hall
120 Main Street
North Andover MA 01845

Or, email to Nicole Civitarese.

The following will occur:

1. Penalties will be added to the initial fine.
2. The Registry of Motor Vehicles will not allow you to renew your driver's license.
3. The Registry of Motor Vehicles will not allow you to renew your vehicle registration.

See the current Winter Parking Ban.

In order to ensure that the Public Works Department is able to clear the streets during a snowstorm.

Yes. If there is no snowstorm, the ban does not have to be observed on Christmas Eve, December 24th, and New Year's Eve December 31st.

Currently, you will need to use our online permitting and fill out a 26F compliance form. You will have to pay a $50 inspection fee payable to the "Town of North Andover". When the inspection form is filled out you may schedule the appointment for the Fire Prevention Officer to come out and complete the inspection. Here is the link to the smoke detector regulations.

The North Andover Fire Department has an outside billing agency. Find the contact information.

The Community Preservation Act (CPA) was signed into law by former Governor Paul Cellucci and Lt. Governor Jane Swift on September 14, 2000. The CPA allows communities to create a local Community Preservation Fund in the municipality to be used for funds through a surcharge of up to 3% of the real estate tax levy on real property for open space, historic preservation, and low and moderate housing. The Act also creates a significant state matching fund of more than $25 million annually, which serves as an incentive to communities to take advantage of the provisions of this legislation. Local municipalities must adopt the Act by ballot referendum.

North Andover was one of the first communities in the state to take advantage of the Community Preservation Act. CPA provides a funding source which can be used to address the following community concerns: acquisition and preservation of open space, creation and support of affordable housing, acquisition and preservation of historic buildings and landscapes, and creation and support of recreational opportunities.

In January 2001, over 70% majority approved the Act at Town Meeting. The CPA was then approved on a March 2001 Town Election ballot.

The Town voted in favor of a 3% property surcharge with two exemptions ($100,000) off of the value of each residential property and persons who qualify as low-income or low or moderate-income senior households. To inquire about qualifying for the low-income or moderate-income senior household exemption, please contact the Board of Assessors or at 978-688-9566.

The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) meets monthly to discuss potential CPA projects and ideas. Progress of previously funded projects are discussed as well. The Committee oversees the financial details of the Fund and completes state-mandated reports to various State agencies. All monthly meetings are open to the public and posted on the Town's Municipal Calendar.

The Committee must hold one annual public information meeting. In previous years, the annual meeting has included guest speakers and discussions of potential projects, as well as a question and answer session. This annual meeting is held prior to the project submission deadline in order to answer any project submission inquiries.

The Committee has a project submission round where anyone may submit a project relating to open space protection, affordable housing, historic preservation and land for recreation use. Applicants are strongly encouraged to bring in project ideas anytime throughout the year in order for the Committee to provide guidance.

After project submission sheets are submitted, the Committee evaluates all submissions. The applicants of each project are invited to present their project to the Committee and answer any questions. After deliberation of the submissions, the Committee selects projects to be submitted and presented to Town Meeting. Town Meeting makes the final decision as to how to distribute monies from the CPA Fund.

No, everything at National Night Out is free and no solicitation is permitted.

No vehicles allowed unless they are food trucks or clearly display logos of the participant and are needed for display (must get approval)

The only food products permitted must be packaged and unopened (ex. candy, small bag of chips, ect.) All food trucks or licensed food companies must obtain a one day license from the North Andover Board of Health to serve food at the event.

There is no electricity available at the location. Small and quiet generators may be used with approval.

Items such as small toys, balloons, coupons or vouchers, water bottles, bags, fidget toys, clothing, frisbees, pencils are all examples of things that can be given away. Feel free to get creative and incorporate games, activities, or demonstrations into your display.