Salem Zoning Overview

Salem is a town in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, with a population of approximately 30,362 (2020 Census). Located on the Massachusetts border, Salem is one of the larger towns in the state and a significant commercial center. Land use and development are regulated through the town's zoning ordinance, administered by the Salem Planning Department.

Salem's zoning ordinance divides the town into several districts, including a residential zone, a residential-industrial zone, a commercial-business zone, and an industrial zone. The R district requires 30,000 sq ft minimum lots.

Key Zoning Districts

Salem's primary zoning districts include:

• R (Residential) — Minimum 30,000 sq ft lots with 35 ft front, 15 ft side, and 25 ft rear setbacks. Maximum height of 35 ft.
• R-I (Residential-Industrial) — Mixed residential and light industrial district with 20,000 sq ft minimum lots.

Commercial and industrial districts include:

• CB (Commercial-Business) — General commercial and business district for retail, office, and service uses
• I (Industrial) — Manufacturing, warehousing, and related industrial uses

ADU Regulations (Accessory Dwelling Units)

New Hampshire state law (RSA 674:72-73) requires all municipalities to allow ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) as a matter of right on any property with a single-family dwelling. Salem must comply with this state mandate. Key points:

• One ADU is permitted per single-family lot
• The ADU may be attached to or detached from the primary dwelling (subject to local standards)
• Municipalities cannot prohibit ADUs but may adopt reasonable regulations regarding size, parking, and other dimensional standards
• Contact the Salem Planning Department for the town's specific ADU application requirements and any local dimensional standards

Building Code

Salem follows the NH State Building Code (RSA 155-A), which is based on the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC). All construction must comply with the state building code.

Development Process

Development in Salem generally requires obtaining the appropriate permits from the town's planning and building departments. The process typically involves:

1. Zoning Verification — Confirm that your proposed use is permitted in the applicable zoning district
2. Site Plan Review — For commercial, multi-family, and certain other projects, submit a site plan to the Planning Board
3. Building Permit — Apply for a building permit with construction documents
4. Inspections — Schedule required inspections during construction
5. Certificate of Occupancy — Obtain final approval before occupying the structure

For projects that do not conform to existing zoning, property owners may need to seek a variance or special exception from the Salem Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA).

Key Considerations

Before starting any development project in Salem, property owners should:

• Verify the zoning classification of their property
• Review setback, height, and lot coverage requirements for the applicable district
• Check for any overlay districts or special regulations
• Determine if the property is in a flood zone using FEMA's flood map service
• Confirm whether HOA covenants or deed restrictions apply
• Contact the Salem Planning Department at (603) 890-2090 for pre-application guidance

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in Salem, NH and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the Salem Planning Department before making development decisions.