>Small town governments in USA at least are very strict with their zoning codes Even cities in the US. I live in a "historic District" in cambridge ma in a bi

>Small town governments in USA at least are very strict with their zoning codes Even cities in the US. I live in a "historic District" in cambridge ma in a big ugly brick building with 35 units. 3 of us wanted to change windows, as they're original 1940s and terrible. So we go to get a permit. The permit department sees "exterior change" looks at the address, and sends it to the historical commission. They won't sign off, we have to attend a hearing. They don't like replacement windows,[1] so we fill out the permit and go to the meeting. We please our case to the four commissioners and no problem. We get the permit, everything was handled professionally, but its a 2 month delay and kind of a pain. I know its encouraging people to do changes without permits. Some of my neighbors (bless their hearts) seem to love to complain about any change, to anything so they're not helping. I can't imagine trying to build something new. (Some renovations were shot down in the meeting and they're invited to work with the commissioners to come up with a compromise.) https://www.cambridgema.gov/historic/permitsApplications https://www.cambridgema.gov/historic/permitsApplications I know restaurants that have had to wait a few months for inspections which delay openings. Its a balance, but sometimes it tips too far. cambridge on windows. [1]https://www.cambridgema.gov/historic/aboutchc/~/media/FF5F4ACDDFB24C1A9A810EE179014735.ashx https://www.cambridgema.gov/historic/aboutchc/~/media/FF5F4A...