Burlington, MA

Burlington, MA Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rules

City Acceptance Rating: 5/10

Last updated: 11/3/2025

Image source: HDPT Physical Therapy

What You Need To Know

Burlington, like all of Massachusetts since the passage of the 2024 Affordable Homes Act, allows ADUs by right. Each town has slightly different rules surrounding ADUs, but they all must adhere to the framework outlined by the state. The rules for Burlington are outlined below. 

Type of ADU Permit Required

ADUs in Burlington do not require special permits, and can be built using a traditional building permit. Residents are allowed to build one ADU per lot. 

ADU Rules

  • An ADU can be maximum 900 square feet, or half the Gross Floor Area of the main house; whichever is smaller. 

  • Short-term rentals are not allowed.

  • Detached ADUs cannot be built closer to the road than the main house.

  • Both the main house and the ADU must be connected to public water and sewer systems.

  • Properties within ½ mile of a transit station do not require additional parking. Properties outside of that area require additional off-street parking (driveway or garage) for all cars owned by the occupants of the ADU.  

  • If an ADU has a separate exterior entrance or is detached, the ADU must be accessible from a path or walkway.

  • Attached ADUs must maintain the architectural style of the main house to the extent possible. 

  • ADUs must have a separate entrance from the main house - attached ADUs can share an entry hall with the main house, but need a separate entry within the entry hall. 

  • Exterior entrances for attached ADUs must be located on the side or back of the dwelling, so that the main house retains the appearance of having only one front door. 

  • The main house and ADU must be owned by the same person(s). 

  • Exterior staircases above the first floor are only allowed in special circumstances.

Resources:

Resources:

https://www.burlington.org/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/608 (See pages 135-137)

Attached ADU, Convert Existing Space, Detached ADUChris LeeGreater Boston, Massachusetts, Burlington, Friendliness Score 5/10