The primary responsibility of the Abington Planning Board under Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 41, Section 81D, as with all cities and towns is to prepare a Comprehensive Master Plan to guide the growth and development of the community. 

The Town of Abington Master Plan, was comprehensively updated in 2009.  The Master Plan consists of several important Elements, including, strategies for accomplishing goals for Land Use, Open Space and Recreation, Economic Development, Circulation and Transportation, Housing, Historic and Cultural Resources and Public Facilities.  The Land Use Element of the Master Plan serves as the basis for the Zoning By-Law and Map and the Town uses the Master Plan as the public policy statement to guide future growth and development and in decision-making for making public improvements.  The Planning Process is a continuing effort for the Planning Board and the Board seeks to keep the Master Plan relevant to changes and current conditions through periodic review and updates.

In September 2024, the state notified the Town of its compliance with the 2021 MBTA Communities law which creates a zoning overlay district to allow multi-family housing by right.