Gilford, New Hampshire

Gilford, NH Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rules

City Acceptance Rating: 10/10

Last Updated: 8.28.2024

Image Source: Town of Guilford

What You Need To Know

ADUs are classified as Accessory Apartments. They may be attached or detached and allowed one per lot. Either the primary unit or the ADU must be owner occupied.

Type of ADU Permit Required

By-right if requirements are met. ZBA review needed if using as a short-term rental.

ADU Rules

  • Single Unit: Only one Accessory Apartment is allowed per lot.

  • Owner Occupancy: The property owner must live in either the main dwelling or the Accessory Apartment.

  • Exterior Consistency: The Accessory Apartment must match the exterior appearance and style of the main single-family residence, including entrances.

  • Bedroom Limit: No more than two bedrooms are allowed in an Accessory Apartment.

  • Size Requirements: The apartment must be between 300 and 1,000 square feet.

  • Septic System: If not connected to municipal sewer, the shared septic system must meet all state requirements.

  • Water System: If not connected to municipal water, the shared water system must comply with state standards and provide adequate water for all occupants.

  • Parking: There must be off-street parking for at least four vehicles, which can include garage or stacked parking.

  • Condominium Restriction: If the property is converted to a condominium, the Accessory Apartment must remain an accessory use and cannot be an independent condominium unit.

  • Attachment: The Accessory Apartment should be attached to the main dwelling, except for detached units that meet specific conditions.

  • Prohibited Locations: Accessory Apartments are not allowed in Manufactured Housing Parks, Manufactured Housing Subdivisions, Planned Unit Developments, Two-Family Residences, Multi-Family Developments, or Dormitories.

  • Egress Compliance: Both the main residence and the Accessory Apartment must meet all applicable egress codes.

  • Building Permit: A building permit is required, and the application must provide sufficient information to verify compliance with all relevant codes and requirements.

  • Detached Units: Detached Accessory Apartments are allowed if:

    • Set back at least 25 feet from side and rear property lines.

    • No taller than 24 feet.

    • Meets all life safety code requirements.

    • No bunkhouse is present on the property.

  • Interior Access: If the Accessory Apartment is attached to the main dwelling, there must be an interior door between the two units.

  • Zoning Compliance: Accessory Apartments are only allowed in zones where they are listed as a permitted use.

Resources:

https://www.gilfordnh.org/file/1783/Whole_Ordinance_for_Web_2020_pdf.pdf page 28

Convert Existing Space, Detatched ADU, Attached ADUDeanna DuffeyNew Hampshiure, Friendliness Rating 10/10, Gilford