Planning Board directs consultant to redraft wireless bylaw with tiered siting framework

SUDBURY — October 22, 2025 — Sudbury Planning Board directs consultant to rewrite wireless bylaw around a tiered siting framework. Michael Lawton of Isotrope walked the board through 2022 Verizon drive-test maps showing that the existing Route 20 overlay district does not align with the town's actual coverage gaps, most prominently west of the town center. Lawton proposed by-right siting in preferred zones, special permits to fill gaps, and outright prohibitions elsewhere, warning that the current bylaw pushes carriers toward variances and possible federal Telecommunications Act litigation. Chair Stephen Garvin and Vice-Chair John Sugrue pressed on tying height limits — 100 versus 150 feet — to parcel size and setbacks, with Sugrue saying he would "rather have Verizon and all three carriers on it than have three towers." Member Anuraj Shah pushed for distinguishing historic districts from individually significant structures. The board also unanimously continued a stormwater hearing for 30 and 38 Fields Road to Nov. 12.