Boards & Commissions

What Boards & Commissions Are

Boards and commissions are volunteer bodies appointed by the Mayor or City Council to advise on specific areas of public life, from historic preservation to housing to public health. Members are Salem residents who bring professional expertise or community experience to their roles. Their meetings are open to the public, and their recommendations often directly shape city policy and development decisions.

Salem has a particularly rich board and commission structure given its history and complexity, the city manages significant tourism, waterfront development, historic preservation, and environmental concerns alongside the everyday needs of a residential community.

Key Boards & Commissions

• Planning Board: Reviews and approves major development proposals, subdivisions, and site plans under Massachusetts zoning law.
• Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA): Hears appeals and requests for variances from zoning requirements.
• Historical Commission: Reviews changes to historically significant properties and recommends local landmarks.
• Conservation Commission: Oversees development near wetlands, rivers, and protected natural resources under the Wetlands Protection Act.
• Community Preservation Committee (CPC): Recommends use of Community Preservation Act funds for historic preservation, open space, recreation, and affordable housing.
• Design Review Board: Reviews design and signage for new construction and renovations in key districts.
• Licensing Board: Issues and oversees licenses for restaurants, entertainment venues, and businesses serving alcohol.
• Board of Health: Sets public health regulations and oversees health inspections.
• Salem Redevelopment Authority: Oversees economic development and urban renewal projects.
• Salem Housing Authority: Manages public housing and affordable housing programs.

A full list of boards, vacancies, and meeting schedules is at salemma.gov.

How to Serve

1. Visit salemma.gov and search for “Board Appointment Applications” to see current vacancies
2. Review the qualifications and meeting schedule for the board or commission that interests you
3. Submit an application to the Mayor’s Office at 93 Washington Street or via the city website
4. Appointments are made by the Mayor or City Council depending on the board
5. Most positions are volunteer; some boards require specific professional credentials