Town of Canton Receives Determination of Compliance with MBTA Communities Law

CANTON — The Canton Select Board and Town Administrator Charles Doody are pleased to announce that the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) has officially determined that the Town of Canton is in full compliance with Section 3A of the Massachusetts Zoning Act, commonly known as the MBTA Communities Law.

Following a thorough review of the Town’s Canton Junction Overlay District application, EOHLC confirmed that Canton meets all regulatory requirements for zoning near public transit, including minimum land area, unit capacity, and density thresholds.

Two years ago, Town Meeting voters approved the Canton Junction Overlay District, which allows for and encourages the production of neighborhood-scale, transit-oriented housing in walkable proximity to Canton’s Commuter Rail stations.

“This determination reflects Canton’s thoughtful and proactive approach to planning for housing while maintaining the character and values of our community,” said Town Administrator Doody. “I want to thank the many individuals who helped us reach this point, particularly our planning and zoning staff, local officials and community members who engaged in the process.”

The MBTA Communities Law requires cities and towns served by the MBTA to create zoning that allows for multi-family housing by right in transit-accessible areas. For Canton, a commuter rail community with just under 10,000 existing housing units, this meant zoning for at least 1,490 multi-family housing units on a minimum of 50 acres of land.

EOHLC found that Canton’s overlay district exceeded these requirements, with zoning capacity for approximately 1,580 units across 56.6 acres — a density of 29.3 units per acre. More than half of the district falls within a half-mile of Canton’s transit stations.

This designation makes Canton eligible for the MBTA Communities Catalyst Fund, which offers planning and infrastructure grants through the state’s Community One Stop for Growth program.

EOHLC noted that Canton should apply site plan and performance review criteria in a manner consistent with “as of right” zoning requirements under the law. The Town is committed to meeting these obligations while maintaining transparency and consistency in its development review processes.

“While the MBTA Communities Law has generated important discussions across the state, Canton’s compliance shows it is possible to balance housing needs with community input,” said Town Administrator Doody. “We will continue to prioritize smart growth that reflects our shared goals for economic vitality, livability and sustainability.”

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