Which Boston neighborhoods have the highest ZBA denial rates?
The North End (~19%) and South Boston (~16%) have among the highest Boston ZBA denial rates, while Back Bay, West Roxbury, and the South End are among the most permissive.
Highest denial (North End)
~19%
South Boston denial
~16%
Most permissive
Back Bay, West Roxbury, South End
Denial rates vary widely by neighborhood. The North End and South Boston see comparatively tough outcomes and more contested cases, while parts of Boston Proper like Back Bay and the outer neighborhoods like West Roxbury approve at higher rates. Citywide denial averages about 12.4%, so neighborhoods above that face tougher boards or more organized opposition.
Neighborhood context is only part of the picture — the parcel's ward, zoning district, lot size, and abutter makeup all factor in. Verdwise combines these into a per-parcel risk read.
Source: Verdwise — built on 15,000+ Boston ZBA decisions from public City of Boston records. Statistical intelligence, not legal advice. Updated 2026-07.