Plaistow, New Hampshire

Plaistow, NH Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rules

City Acceptance Rating: 4/10

Last Updated: 8.28.2024

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What You Need To Know

ADUs must maintain the appearance of a single-family home, with entrances located on the side or rear. ADUs cannot exceed 1,000 square feet and may have no more than two bedrooms. Either the primary home or the ADU must be owner-occupied, and only one ADU is allowed per parcel. Permits and compliance with safety and building codes are required, and ADUs may be rented, with inspections necessary for leases over one year.

Type of ADU Permit Required

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) require a conditional use permit from the Planning Board before construction or use. Applications for this permit follow the same procedures as site plan review. The Planning Board may grant a condition.

ADU Rules

  • Design and Appearance: The accessory dwelling unit (ADU) must be designed to maintain the appearance of a single-family dwelling. New entrances should be located on the side or rear of the building. If the ADU is attached to the primary dwelling, there must be a connecting door.

  • Dwelling Type: The single-family dwelling cannot be a mobile home. ADUs are allowed in condominium units with written approval from the condominium association. Only one ADU is permitted per parcel.

  • Size: The ADU cannot exceed 1,000 square feet.

  • Occupancy: Either the primary dwelling unit or the ADU must be owner-occupied.

  • Bedrooms: The ADU may have no more than two bedrooms.

  • Ownership Restrictions: The ADU and lot cannot be converted into a condominium or any other form of legal ownership distinct from the single-family dwelling.

  • Permits and Compliance: Before issuing a building permit for a new ADU or a certificate of occupancy for an existing one, the property owner must provide the Building Inspector with:

    • A State of New Hampshire-approved septic design, specifying the number of bedrooms in both the primary dwelling and the ADU.

    • A floor plan at a scale of 1/4 inch to the foot showing the proposed changes to the building.

    • A sketch plan of the lot, drawn to scale, showing existing and proposed structures and parking.

    1. Utilities: All utilities in the ADU must use the existing utility meters.

    2. Rental and Certificates of Occupancy: ADUs may be rented. The property owner must apply for a certificate of occupancy for any new tenant under a lease of more than one year. The unit must be inspected for compliance with building and life safety codes before the certificate is issued.

    3. Driveway: The driveway for the primary residence and its ADU must provide ingress/egress onto a Class V or better road via a single curb cut.

  • Transfer of Ownership: If a home with an ADU is sold, the new owner must apply for a certificate of occupancy for the ADU under the provisions outlined in this ordinance.

  • Location of ADUs: ADUs may be added to a single-family residence, an attached garage, or a detached garage. Garage units may be located on the same floor as the garage or built as a second story.

Resources:

https://www.plaistow.com/sites/g/files/vyhlif1071/f/uploads/2022_zoningordinance_final_0.pdf Page 97

Convert Existing Space, Attached ADUDeanna DuffeyNew Hampshiure, Friendliness Rating 4/10, Plaistow