Design Review Board

The Design Review Board continues to conduct their meetings via Zoom. It is recommended that applicants contact our office at least two weeks in advance of a DRB meeting to discuss their project and application process. Please refer to links at the bottom of this page for application information and materials.  Application deadlines are a week prior to a meeting.

Please contact Elisa Litchman by email (elitchman@needhamma.gov) or by phone 781.455.7550 ext. 72222, leave a voice mail and your message will be returned during working hours.

To listen, view and participate in virtual meetings, please refer to the posted DRB agenda on the Town Calendar for virtual platform details or the agenda link (listed on margin).  Members of the public can join via phone, computer, laptop, or tablet.  Use the following ID: 837 5422 1747.

Meetings 

• 7:30 p.m.
• Mondays usually twice per month
• Currently conducted remotely via Zoom.

Members

The Design Review Board consists of five regular members and two alternate members. 

• Three regular members are appointed by the Planning Board:
  • One member qualified in the art or design profession*
  • One member to be qualified in fine arts or landscape design
• Two regular members and two alternate members are appointed by the Select Board:
  • One member qualified in the art or design profession*
  • One member who is doing retail business in the town*
• Appointments are for three year terms

Members:

General Purpose

The Design Review Board shall review permit applications for all new structures and outdoor uses, exterior additions, exterior alterations, and exterior changes in all areas as specified in 7.7.2.2 of the zoning by-laws, and shall also review requests for all sign permits, as required under Article 5 of the Needham general by-laws.

Helpful Links & Information

• Design Review Board Application Information    DRB Application Form
• Sign by-law regulations are contained in Article 5 of the general by-laws, page 39
• Review Fee is $25 - No fee required for Planning Board Site Plan Review
• Sign By-Law Appeal fee is $2 per square foot