Board adopts amendment limiting cistern requirement to larger subdivisions beyond public water

The Bedford Planning Board adopted on April 29 an amendment to Article 2.36 (fire protection) of the Bedford Land Development Control Regulations to clarify when a fire cistern may be required.

Under the revised language, new developments that create more than three new lots located more than 1,200 feet from a public water supply may be required to provide a fire cistern for fire‑protection purposes upon recommendation of the Fire Chief. The proposed change was prompted by instances where small subdivisions were previously asked to provide costly cisterns; staff and the Fire Chief sought clearer guidance to limit requests for small‑scale projects.

Board members discussed discretion retained for the Fire Chief and the decision to keep the "may be required" phrasing rather than a mandatory "shall." Several members said the amendment balances predictability for developers with necessary safety discretion; staff said the language can be revisited if it proves difficult to administer.

The board voted to adopt the amendment as presented by staff. No public comments were recorded at the hearing.