Palmer, MA

Palmer, MA Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) Rules

City Acceptance Rating:

5/10 (10 is most accepting)

What you need to know: 

Palmer allows both attached and detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to be built by special permit. However, it is important to note that the town’s rules are very clear that the design and site plan must conform with the single family and rural characteristics of the town.

Type of Permit Required:

• Both attached and detached ADUs require a special permit.

• ADUs used as rentals to non family members are not permitted in the Rural Residential District.

ADU rules in Palmer:

Requirements for all accessory dwelling units

• If a home is being used as an ADU and as space to conduct business, the ADU must be occupied by family. The bylaw refers to this as “Home Occupation.”

• Only one entrance door can be added to the new unit that faces the street.

• Parking:

  • In the Village Center District, the zoning board of appeals may waive parking requirements if there is adequate public parking near the proposed unit.

  • One additional space is required if an ADU is being included in the construction of a new home.

• The ADU living area may be no more than thirty-three percent (33%) of the living area of the house or 800SF whichever is less.

Rules for Detached & Additions

• The exterior finish material must be the same or visually match that of the existing home.

• The roof pitch must match that the existing home.

• Trim must match that the existing home.

• Windows must match that the existing home in proportion and orientation.

• Eaves must project from the building walls the same distance as the eaves on the existing home.

Read the full bylaw here: Zoning Ordinance, Section 171-89 Accessory Dwelling Units