ADU rules in Brookline, MA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Brookline updated its ADU bylaw (§ 4.05) in 2024 to comply with MGL c. 40A §3. One ADU by right on single-family lots is allowed up to 900 sq ft or 50% of principal floor area. Owner-occupancy requirements removed. FAR cap for ADUs eliminated.
Brookline's 2024 ADU by-law amendment (Article 15, partially approved by the AG in June 2025) allows one ADU by right on single-family lots in compliance with the Affordable Homes Act (H. 4977). Maximum size: lesser of 900 sq ft or 50% of principal dwelling GFA. Owner-occupancy requirements are eliminated. The 120% FAR cap for ADUs is eliminated. Parking requirements: one additional space maximum, except properties within 0.5 miles of public transit. ADUs must match the style and architecture of the principal dwelling. Detached ADUs may include garage conversions; the prior 5-year garage age requirement is removed. ADUs must meet 780 CMR and stretch energy code.
ADUs not meeting size, setback, or building code requirements are subject to zoning enforcement.
Brookline, MA
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Brookline, MA
Brookline's Article 8.15 restricts construction noise activities on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays to hours before 8:00 PM. Weekday construction hour limit...
Brookline, MA
Brookline regulates noise under General By-Laws Article 8.15 (Noise Control). The bylaw prohibits Noise Pollution, defined as sound exceeding the Background ...
Brookline, MA
Brookline prohibits parking for more than 2 hours on streets between 6 AM and 1 AM (Sunday/holiday exempt). Overnight parking of more than 1 hour is prohibit...
Brookline, MA
Brookline issues commercial parking permits for $600/year allowing parking on designated residential side streets within 1/4 mile of a commercial district. T...
Brookline, MA
Brookline residents may use private driveways for personal vehicles. The overnight street parking ban applies to those without off-street parking. Blocking a...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Norfolk County.
See how other cities in Norfolk County handle adu rules.
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