Great Barrington, MA
Great Barrington, MA Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) Rules
City Acceptance Rating: 7/10 (10 is the most accepting)
What you need to know:
Great 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 900 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.
Type of Permit Required:
Great Barrington allows both attached and detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to be built by right.
If the ADU is proposed in a nonconforming lot, it requires a special permit.
ADU Rules in Great Barrington:
Only one ADU is allowed per lot.
ADUs are allowed on single family and two family lots.
The ADU and primary home must have the same owner.
The ADU cannot be larger than 900 gross square feet. (“Gross” includes unfinished space and area with low ceilings)
A newly constructed backyard home or addition must meet setback and other dimensional requirements related to the primary home. An ADU can be located in an existing nonconforming structure with a special permit.
The ADU must be provided one parking space. This spot must be in addition to the minimum required spaces for the primary home. The parking space must be located behind the front setback line, unless a variance is granted by the planning board.
When possible, new entrances to the ADU must be located on the rear or side of the building.
Fire escapes and outside stairways leading to a second or higher story shall be located on the rear or side of the building. They should not be visible from the street.
Read the full bylaws here:
Zoning Ordinance, Section 8.2 Accessory Dwelling Units
Zoning Ordinance, Section 8.1 Two-family residential use of a single lot.