Hadley, MA

Hadley does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Granny flats must be constructed within existing space or as an addition.

Greenfield, MA

Greenfield revised its rules for Accessory Dwelling Units in 2016 to make it easier for homeowners to add an additional dwelling unit to their properties. The city sees ADUs as a great to way increase density and create high quality housing without sacrificing the character of the town. Since the bylaw was approved, there have been many ADUs added to homes including at least one backyard home (detached ADU)!

Great Barrington, MA

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 650 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.

Deerfield, MA

Deerfield does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The town allows attached accessory dwelling units under extremely strict circumstances. ADUs can only be used to provide in home care for someone who needs help with Activities of Daily Living and the Special Permit issued has to be renewed every 5 years.

Belchertown, MA

Belchertown does not allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Granny flats must be constructed within existing space or as an addition.

Amherst, MA

In 2014, Amherst joined many cities in MA by revising bylaws making it easier for homeowners to install accessory apartments in all zoning districts. They have very straight forward rules in their zoning ordinance, but design requirements are strict and certain neighborhoods are harder to obtain approvals than others due to fears about student tenants and noise.

Northampton, MA

In 2014, Northampton joined many cities in MA by revising its zoning bylaw to make it easier for homeowners to build accessory apartments in all zoning districts. They have attractive rules in their zoning ordinance and biggest restrictions are related to environmental protections.

Chesterfield, MA

Chesterfield joined many cities in MA by revising its zoning bylaw to make it easier for homeowners to build accessory apartments in most zoning districts.

Easthampton, MA

In 2014, Easthampton joined many cities in MA by revising its zoning bylaw to allow homeowners to build accessory apartments in all zoning districts. Installations started slow and have been used primarily for aging parents or to help care for disabled family members.

Today – surging home prices, high rents, and unwanted gentrification have put the bylaw in the spotlight and have stimulated demand for detached accessory dwelling units (Backyard ADUs).