Methuen, MA Accessory Structures: ADU Rental Restrictions (2026)

The rule sits in § 5.7 of the Methuen Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, adopted by the Methuen City Council. It lets a homeowner convert, renovate or add not more than 700 square feet, in an existing dwelling or in original construction, for a separate housekeeping unit. The ordinance ties that allowance to one purpose: the unit must be non-income-producing and must house a member of the family. The section does not create a rental-unit category, and the definitions in Article II describe an accessory apartment the same way, as a separate housekeeping unit for a member of the family.

Several other conditions in § 5.7 keep the unit tied to the main house. Not more than one accessory apartment can be established in a principal dwelling. The unit cannot have separate utilities, and the building must be designed so its appearance stays intact. Access is through an interior doorway, and any new entrance the Building Official requires for safety goes on the side or rear of the dwelling. Off-street parking must follow the residential parking requirements of the ordinance.

The owner also records a restrictive covenant in the Registry of Deeds stating that the right to maintain an accessory apartment in no way constitutes approval of an additional dwelling unit. A copy of the recorded covenant is filed with the Building Department. Subsection G adds that the apartment is a temporary exemption, not a guaranteed right, renewable yearly, with a $50 fee for each reinspection. If the permit is not renewed, the second kitchen must be removed and free access created throughout the dwelling. These conditions apply in all districts of the City of Methuen, and § 5.13 lists the accessory apartment as a single-family residential accessory use.