Cape Elizabeth, Maine
Cape Elizabeth, ME Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rules
City Acceptance Rating: 9/10
Last Updated: 11.5.2024
Image source: Town of Cape Elizabeth, Maine
What You Need to Know
Cape Elizabeth has excellent rules for accessory dwelling units with few restrictions. The ADU must be located on a property with a single-family dwelling as the primary structure. Setbacks for the ADU depend on its location within or attached to the primary dwelling or in an existing accessory structure. Additionally, the ADU cannot be used as a short-term rental.
Type of Permit Required
ADUs in Cape Elizabeth are a permitted use and require a building permit.
ADU Rules
Single-family Parity: ADUs are allowed only on lots with a single-family dwelling as the principal structure.
Location: ADUs can be:
Within an existing dwelling unit,
Attached to or sharing a wall with the primary dwelling,
In a new structure or a converted accessory building (subject to accessory structure setbacks).
Density: ADUs are exempt from additional density or lot size requirements beyond those for the primary dwelling.
Setbacks:
ADUs attached to the primary dwelling must follow the same setback and dimensional requirements.
ADUs in existing accessory buildings must follow the original setbacks for those buildings.
Parking: No additional parking requirements beyond those for the primary dwelling.
Size:
Minimum size of 190 square feet.
Maximum size of 800 square feet and must be smaller than the primary dwelling.
Short-Term Rental Prohibition: ADUs cannot be used as short-term rentals (effective July 10, 2024).