Accessory Dwelling Units: Lessons For Massachusetts From Around The Country
November 09, 2023 by Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) can address various housing challenges, including affordability by increasing housing supply without significantly altering neighborhood character. Many localities have changed zoning codes to encourage ADU construction, but Massachusetts has been slow to adopt such changes. Statewide legislation requiring by-right local approvals of ADUs is crucial for increasing their production. Massachusetts has faced several challenges in supplying ADUs due to restrictive local regulations, local homeowner opposition, complex approval processes, limited public awareness of ADUs, and limited financing available to support their construction. The experiences of places like Portland, Oregon, and New Hampshire show that comprehensive state laws can significantly boost ADU development. By providing affordable units in expensive locations and rental income for homeowners, ADUs can expand economic opportunities and help address housing affordability issues.