Governor Maura Healey has announced an increase in the production of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Massachusetts. Since the Affordable Homes Act took effect, 1,224 ADUs have been permitted or approved across 217 communities in the state.
According to Mass.gov, to support ADU construction, the administration launched the ADU Design Challenge, backed by $10 million from the state’s Capital Investment Plan and sponsor commitments. The challenge will provide a library of ADU designs to help homeowners navigate financial and regulatory barriers. Designs will be made public in late April.
State regulations now allow ADUs up to 900 square feet or smaller than 50% of the primary residence to be built by right in single-family zoning districts. This change aims to simplify and standardize the permitting process.
MassHousing will also introduce a construction loan program in spring, with a budget of up to $20 million to assist low- and moderate-income homeowners. The program will provide low-cost subordinate mortgage loans for ADU construction.
These measures are intended to expand housing options, support homeowners, and increase affordable housing availability across Massachusetts.
