York, Maine

York, ME Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rules

City Acceptance Rating: 10/10

Last Updated: 6.25.2024

Image source: Wikipedia

What You Need To Know

ADU regulations have loosened in York.  This includes capacity for a larger ADU, and they no longer require a special exception.

Type of ADU Permit Required

An ADU in York requires a building permit issued by the Code Enforcement Officer.

ADU Rules

1. Only one ADU is allowed per lot.

2. Short term rentals are not permitted in the ADU, principal dwelling, or on a lot where an ADU is constructed.

3. The property owner must reside in either the ADU or the primary dwelling during a portion of each calendar year.

4. The gross floor area of the ADU may not exceed 50% of the total gross floor area of the primary dwelling or 850 square feet, whichever is less.

1. Gross floor area does not include garage or unfinished attic space.

2. The minimum gross floor area is 190 square feet.

5. A home business or occupation can be conducted in either the ADU or primary dwelling but not both.

6. ADUs must be designed to maintain the character of the primary dwelling.

1. Exterior stairs are not allowed.

2. If the ADU is detached, it must be designed in the style of a barn, garage, carriage house, or similar structure usually located on a single family lot.

3. Wherever realistic, no more than one curb cut is allowed, unless the lot has multiple curb cuts already.

7. If the existing dwelling is on a well, a test must be completed and reported to the Code Enforcement Officer.

8. Detached ADUs must be no further than 150 feet from the primary dwelling.

Resources:

Town of York, Maine Zoning Ordinance Article 7.17/Page 139

https://www.yorkmaine.org/DocumentCenter/View/11468/Zoning-Ordinance_2024-5-18_Certified