Montague, MA
Montague, MA Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rules
City Acceptance Rating: 8/10 (10 is most accepting)
Evaluate your property:
What you need to know:
Montague 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.
Type of Permit Required:
Living Space Conversion:
Conversion of space within an existing home can be done with only a building permit.
Additions and Detached:
Both new additions, conversion of existing detached structures and newly constructed detached structures require a Special Permit.
ADU Rules in Montague:
Only one Accessory Apartment may be created on a single-family lot.
Utilities, water & sewer must be integrated with the single-family dwelling.
The owner must occupy either the ADU of primary home.
The ADU must maintain the single-family character of the home
The ADU’s design must match the character of the home
New entrances shall be located on the side or rear of the building.
New stairways to provide access or egress to the ADU shall be enclosed, screened, or located so they are not visible to the public.
A ADU cannot be larger that 900 SF
A minimum of two (2) off street parking space must be provided and the entire lot can not have more than 4.
Minimum lot size requirements are waved in districts AF-1, RS-2 and RB
The Building Inspector or the Zoning Board of Appeals may allow reasonable deviation from the stated conditions to accommodate features that facilitate access and mobility for disabled persons
See Dimensional Requirements (extracted12/14/2019)
See the full Zoning Ordinance here: Zoning Ordinance Section 8.5.2 Accessory Apartments