Town of Webster places temporary development moratorium through 2026 as officials review future growth and land use plans

Webster, New York – The Town of Webster has announced that a temporary development moratorium is currently in effect, meaning certain new projects may face delays or additional review requirements before moving forward.

The moratorium will remain active through the end of 2026, with the possibility of being extended for up to two additional three-month periods. Town officials are encouraging property owners, developers and residents with planned projects to determine whether their proposals are affected before submitting formal applications.

The temporary restriction applies to several categories of development that could have a significant impact on land use and future planning within the town. Among the projects affected are subdivisions of land that would create more than four parcels, large-scale solar energy projects and data centers.

The moratorium also applies to all real property located within several zoning areas identified on the Town of Webster’s 2021 Zoning Map. These areas include the Office Park North District (O-P), Medium Intensity Commercial District (MC), High Intensity Commercial District (HC), Commercial Outdoor Storage District (CO), and Low Intensity Commercial Districts LC-1 and LC-2.

Town officials said the temporary measure is intended to provide time for review and planning related to development regulations and future growth. During the moratorium period, certain applications in affected areas may not move forward until the restrictions are lifted or updated.

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However, not all projects are impacted. The town has identified several types of work that remain exempt from the moratorium. Routine maintenance of existing buildings, redevelopment of existing commercial spaces and industrial development are allowed to continue.

Common residential improvement projects are also not included in the restrictions. Homeowners may still complete projects such as additions, swimming pools, sheds, fences and other accessory structures without being affected by the temporary development pause.

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Officials are advising anyone considering a project in Webster to contact the town before filing an application. Applicants are encouraged to call the Town of Webster at 585-872-7028 to confirm whether their specific project falls under the moratorium.

The town’s temporary development moratorium is designed to provide officials with an opportunity to review planning issues while allowing many routine projects and approved types of development to continue. Residents and businesses are encouraged to seek guidance early in the process to avoid delays or unexpected changes to their plans.