Dunstable, MA

Attached ADU, Convert Existing SpaceChris LeeSeptember 19, 2024Western MA, Massachusetts, Friendliness Score 2/10, Dunstable

Winchester, MA

Attached ADU, Convert Existing Space, Detached ADUChris LeeSeptember 11, 2024Western MA, Massachusetts, Friendliness Score 2/10, Winchester

Chelmsford, MA

Attached ADU, Convert Existing SpaceChris LeeSeptember 11, 2024Western MA, Massachusetts, Chelmsford, Friendliness Score 2/10

Millbury, MA

Attached ADU, Convert Existing SpaceChris LeeSeptember 11, 2024Western MA, Massachusetts, Millbury, Friendliness score 4/10

Fitchburg, MA

Attached ADU, Convert Existing SpaceChris LeeSeptember 5, 2024Western MA, Massachusetts, Fitchburg, Friendliness Score 7/10

Lancaster, MA

Attached ADU, Convert Existing Space, Detached ADUChris LeeApril 25, 2024Friendliness Score N/A, Lancaster, Massachusetts, Western MA

Williamsburg, MA

Williamsburg does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Granny flats must be constructed within existing space or as an addition.

Wilbraham, MA

Wilbraham does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Granny flats must be constructed within existing space or as an addition.

Whately, MA

Whately does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Granny flats must be constructed within existing space or as an addition.

Warwick, MA

Tiny Home Eligible, Attached ADU, Convert Existing Space, Detached ADUGuest UserMay 4, 2020Friendliness Score N/A, Western MA, Warwick, Massachusetts

Sunderland, MA

Sunderland does not have a section in its bylaw covering accessory dwelling units (ADUs). However, the town does allow two-family homes in all zoning districts except C-2. If your property has enough space you may be able to add backyard tiny home as a formal 2nd unit.

South Hadley, MA

South Hadley does not have a bylaw for detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). However, they do provide a path to convert single-family homes into duplexes following the rules in the town’s zoning ordinance.

Southampton, MA

Southampton does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Granny flats must be constructed within existing space or as an addition.

Shutesbury, MA

Shutesbury revised its rules for Accessory Dwelling Units in 2008 to make it easier for homeowners to add an additional dwelling unit to their properties. The city sees ADUs as a great to way help increase density and create high quality housing without sacrificing the character of the town. Since the bylaw was approved, there have been many ADUs added to homes including at least one backyard home (detached ADU)!

Plainfield, MA

Plainfield loves ADUs and has a favorable permitting process. However, it is important to note that the town’s rules are very clear that the design and site plan must conform with the single family and rural characteristics of the town.

Pelham, MA

Detached ADUs are only allowed by Special Permit in its Village Center Districts. Conversion of existing space or additions are only allowed by right in its Village Center Districts.

Palmer, MA

Palmer allows both attached and detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to be built by special permit. However, it is important to note that the town’s rules are very clear that the design and site plan must conform with the single family and rural characteristics of the town.

Montague, MA

Montague has very favorable rules related to backyard homes (ADUs). There are limited restrictions and their zoning bylaw overall does not place excessive regulations on what can be built on a someone’s land. Setback requirements are also some of the most accommodating in Western Mass. However, homeowners still need to apply for a special permit to build a detached ADU so it will be important to plan a project that considers neighbors and the public if your ADU will be visible from the street.

Monson, MA

Monson does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Granny flats must be constructed within existing space or as an addition.

Leverett, MA

Leverett does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The town allows attached accessory dwelling units under extremely strict circumstances. The town also requires the special permit to be renewed every 2 years. We do not recommend building an ADU of any kind in Leverett.