Reports and Studies

The Preservation Staff of the Planning and Development Department will post reports and studies here pertaining to preservation in Newton. Please check back occasionally to see new postings.


The Planning and Development Department is pleased to announce the creation of the Newton Historic Preservation Design Guidelines.  Completed in 2012, these guidelines were created through CPA and Massachusetts Historical Commission grants and are intended to assist property owners with caring for their historic buildings and properties.  When contemplating changes to historic buildings and properties, applicants are encouraged to consult the guidelines.  The guidelines can be accessed through the links below.

Design Guidelines: Introduction and Process                       Exterior Maintenance

Exterior Woodwork                                                          Roofing

Masonry and Stucco                                                        Landscaping and Site Elements

Windows and Doors                                                        Commercial Properties

Sustainability                                                                  Additions and New Construction 

Architectural Styles

Newton Archaeology Report:
Completed in 2011, this report discusses archaeological sites in Newton and provides preservation guidance for the protection of these historic resources.

Newton Archaeology Report


Newton's Heritage Landscapes: A Community-Based Reconnaissance Report
Completed in 2010, this report highlights landscapes within the City that have historic significance based upon community input at public meetings.

Heritage Landscape Report


Newton's 19th Century Architecture Booklets:
Written in the 1970s and 1980s these booklets highlight the City's 19th Century Architecture.

Newton Corner and Nonantum                                        Newton Highlands and Waban

Newton Upper and Lower Falls                                        Newtonville

West Newton                                                                 Auburndale

Newton Centre-Oak Hill-Chestnut Hill