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.
Read MoreSouth 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.
Read MoreSouthampton does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Granny flats must be constructed within existing space or as an addition.
Read MoreShutesbury 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)!
Read MorePlainfield 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.
Read MoreDetached 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.
Read MorePalmer 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.
Read MoreMontague 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.
Read MoreMonson does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Granny flats must be constructed within existing space or as an addition.
Read MoreLeverett 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.
Read MoreLudlow does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Granny flats must be constructed within existing space or as an addition.
Read MoreGranby does not allow attached or detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The town also specifically prohibits the conversion of single family homes into duplexes or mutli-family homes.
Read MoreHuntington does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Granny flats must be constructed within existing space or as an addition.
Read MoreHatfield does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Granny flats must be constructed within existing space or as an addition.
Read MoreHadley does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Granny flats must be constructed within existing space or as an addition.
Read MoreGreenfield revised its rules for Accessory Dwelling Units in 2016 to make it easier for homeowners to add an additional dwelling unit to their properties. The city sees ADUs as a great to way 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)!
Read MoreGreat Barrington loves ADUs and allows them by right in all zoning districts. However, it is important to note that the backyard home cannot be greater than 650 SF. Additionally, if an ADU is proposed in an existing nonconforming structure, a special permit will be needed.
Great Barrington also defines a path to convert a single family property to a legal duplex or multifamily property. For eligible lots, this formal conversion will allow homeowners to maximize their property value. Duplexes and multifamily properties are discussed in section 8.1 and 8.3 of the zoning bylaw.
The town is also deliberating on new rules that would allow tiny homes on trailers! Stay tuned for more information and if you are a resident of Great Barrington contact the planning/zoning board to voice your support.
Read MoreDeerfield does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The town allows attached accessory dwelling units under extremely strict circumstances. ADUs can only be used to provide in home care for someone who needs help with Activities of Daily Living and the Special Permit issued has to be renewed every 5 years.
Read MoreBelchertown does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Granny flats must be constructed within existing space or as an addition.
Read MoreIn 2014, Amherst joined many cities in MA by revising bylaws making it easier for homeowners to install accessory apartments in all zoning districts. They have very straight forward rules in their zoning ordinance, but design requirements are strict and certain neighborhoods are harder to obtain approvals than others due to fears about student tenants and noise.
Read More
