View the Barnstable HandbookTown Government
Boards & Commissions
What Boards & Commissions Are
Beyond the Council and School Committee, much of Barnstable’s governing happens on volunteer boards and commissions, approving development, hearing zoning appeals, protecting historic districts, managing open space, and advising on housing, the harbors, and aging. The town has more than 40 boards, committees, and commissions with roughly 291 seats, one of the largest volunteer governing structures of any town on the Cape.
In Barnstable, members are appointed by the Town Council through its Appointments Committee, which interviews applicants and recommends them for a Council vote. Meetings are public, and many boards have openings.
Key Boards & Commissions
- Planning Board — reviews subdivisions, site plans, and major development.
- Zoning Board of Appeals — hears variances and special permits.
- Conservation Commission — protects wetlands and natural resources.
- Old King’s Highway Historic District Committee — oversees changes along the historic Route 6A corridor.
- Hyannis Main Street Waterfront Historic District Commission — guides downtown Hyannis development.
- Community Preservation Committee — recommends use of Community Preservation Act funds.
- Licensing Authority & Board of Health — regulate businesses, food, and public health.
For the full roster, current members, vacancies, and schedules, see barnstable.gov.
How to Serve
- Find an opening on the town’s boards and committees page.
- Submit an application to the Appointments Committee, you may apply even when no vacancy is listed.
- Interview with the Appointments Committee, which recommends candidates to the full Council.
- Serve — attend public meetings and help make decisions for your town.
Serving on a board is one of the most direct ways to shape Barnstable.