ADUs: The Benefits of By Right Legislation

What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit?

An ADU is an additional dwelling that can be placed on a property with a single family dwelling. The ADU can either be attached (think in-law) or detached from the primary dwelling.

What does this new legislation mean?

Massachusetts state-wide regulations were passed back on February 2nd, 2025. Under these regulations, AS OF RIGHT home-owners can put an ADU on their single-family zoned property. The regulations also protect property owners from unreasonable restrictions by municipalities.

Therefore, any local ADU by-laws that conflict with the state-wide ADU regulations are un-enforceable.

What does this mean for homeowners/prospective buyers?

The purpose of ADUs is to increase housing-affordability not only for renters, but for home-owners. Adding an ADU is a great way to offset your mortgage and make your home work for you! This is also a creative way for first-time homebuyers to add a revenue stream to help pay the bills.

According to the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, they estimate that 8,000-10,000 ADUs  can be created in the next 5 years thanks to these new regulations.

At CMD, we are always tracking new regulations and looking at new opportunities for our prospective buyers to get the best deal possible! If you are looking at opportunities to buy in Massachusetts, contact us today!

Link to ADU regulations: https://www.mass.gov/doc/adu-draft-regulations/download