Proposed Development Moratorium Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) The Town of Webster is considering a temporary development moratorium affecting certain largescale residential projects and development within commercial districts and corridors. This FAQ is intended to provide general information about the proposal and answers common questions from residents, property owners, and developers.
What is a development moratorium? A development moratorium is a temporary pause on certain types of development approvals. It allows the Town time to evaluate existing regulations, planning policies, and administrative procedures before additional development occurs. Moratoria are commonly used by municipalities experiencing significant growth or development pressure to ensure future development aligns with long-term community goals.
Why is the Town considering a moratorium? The Town is experiencing increased development interest and pressure, particularly for large residential projects and development within commercial districts and corridors. At the same time, the Town is currently: • Updating its long-range Comprehensive Plan • Anticipating updates to the Town’s zoning code A temporary moratorium would allow the Town to complete this work and ensure future development is consistent with the community’s long-term vision.
How long would the moratorium last? The proposed moratorium would be in effect for a minimum of six (6) months. If additional time is needed to complete planning or regulatory updates, the Town Board may consider up to (2) 3-month extensions.
What types of development would be affected? The moratorium would apply to approvals related to: • Large-scale residential development projects • New development within commercial districts
Proposed Development Moratorium Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) This may include applications requiring: • • •
Rezoning Site plan approval Subdivision approval
Specific details will be defined in the final moratorium legislation.
What types of projects would NOT be affected? The proposed moratorium is intended to focus on larger development activity. Typically, the following would not be affected: • • • •
Routine home improvements, renovations or additions Building permits for single-family homes on existing lots Repairs, maintenance, or interior improvements Projects that have already received preliminary approvals or valid permits
Any exemptions will be clearly outlined in the adopted law.
What does LC-II, MC, HC and CO mean? Those are the abbreviations for the commercial districts contained in the Town’s Zoning Code and on the Town’s Official Zoning Map. They stand for Low-Intensity, Medium-Intensity, High-Intensity Commercial, and Commercial Outdoor Storage.
What happens to applications that have already been submitted? Applications submitted before the effective date of the moratorium will be reviewed based on the provisions of the adopted law. In many cases, applications that are already substantially complete may continue through the review process, while others may be temporarily paused during the moratorium period. The Town will work with applicants to clarify how their specific project may be affected.
Can developers submit new applications during the moratorium? Applications may still be submitted; however, applications subject to the moratorium would generally not be reviewed or approved until the moratorium period ends, unless they qualify for an exemption or hardship relief.
Proposed Development Moratorium Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Will there be a process to request an exemption or hardship waiver? Many moratorium laws include a hardship relief process. Applicants may be able to request an exemption through an application to the Town Board. Any such process would be outlined in the final moratorium law adopted by the Town Board.
Will the public have an opportunity to participate or provide feedback on the proposed development moratorium? Yes. Residents, property owners, and developers will have opportunities to provide input through: • A Public hearing • Contacting Town Board Members o ascialdone@websterny.gov o nhunter@websterny.gov o jwright@websterny.gov o jcahill@websterny.gov o gwagner@websterny.gov •
Submission of Public comments through the online comment submittal form on the Town’s website: www.websterny.gov/moratorium Community participation is an important part of shaping the Town’s future.
When will the Town decide whether to adopt the moratorium? The Town Board will consider the proposed moratorium at a future Town Board meeting, after hearing public input from the community. The formal public hearing is scheduled for April 2, 2026, where residents and stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide comments. The specific date that the Town Board will vote on the moratorium has not yet been determined.
Where can I get more information? For more information about the proposed moratorium, please contact: Communications Department Phone: 585-910-4087 Email: communications@websterny.gov Website: www.websterny.gov/moratorium
Supervisor’s Office 585-872-7068 supervisor@websterny.gov
To learn more about the Town’s current effort to update its comprehensive plan, visit the project webpage at www.webster2040.com . Important Note: A development moratorium is temporary and is intended to give the Town time to complete planning work and ensure that future development aligns with community goals and infrastructure capacity.