ADU rules in Swampscott, MA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
The 2024 Affordable Homes Act amended MGL Chapter 40A to require all Massachusetts municipalities to allow accessory dwelling units by-right in single-family zoning districts, preempting restrictive local rules.
Section 3 of MGL Chapter 40A, as amended by the Affordable Homes Act of 2024, requires that ADUs of up to 900 square feet be allowed by-right on any lot zoned for single-family residential use. Municipalities cannot impose owner-occupancy requirements, additional parking minimums beyond one space, or special permit requirements on these protected ADUs. Local zoning may still regulate dimensional setbacks, building code compliance, and short-term rental use. The law took effect in February 2025 and was implemented through Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) regulations at 760 CMR 71.
Municipalities denying compliant ADU applications face Land Court reversal and potential housing appeals committee orders; property owners face standard zoning enforcement only for actual violations of permitted dimensions.
See how Swampscott's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.