Revere, MA Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

The Affordable Homes Act, Section 7 and 8, amended M.G.L. Chapter 40A Section 1A and M.G.L. Chapter 40A Section 3 to allows accessory dwelling units — or ADUs — under 900 square feet to be built by-right in single-family zoning districts.

An accessory dwelling unit is a small residential living space located on the same lot as another home. ADUs can play a significant role in our housing crisis. The ADU law allows property owners to build an ADU by-right.

ADUs can be inside an existing home, like converting a basement into an apartment, attached to a primary residence as an addition, or completely detached, like a cottage or converted garage in a backyard.

An ADU must:

Maintain a separate entrance, either directly from the outside or through an entry hall or corridor shared with the principal dwelling sufficient to meet the requirements of the state building code for safe egress;

Be either no larger than half the gross floor area of the principal dwelling or 900 square feet, whichever is smaller;

Meet local municipal restrictions, including, but not limited to, additional size restrictions and/or restrictions or prohibitions on short-term rental if the city or town decides to impose these

What can communities do effective Sunday, February 2, 2025 on single ADUs in single-family zoning districts? Municipalities may impose reasonable restrictions and requirements for: Municipalities cannot:

Site Plan Review Require owner occupancy nor family relationship for the ADU or the principal dwelling Title V requirements Require a special permit or other discretionary zoning approval for the use or rental of an ADU Regulations concerning dimensional setbacks and the bulk and height of structures Require more than 1 parking space for an ADU located outside 0.5 miles from a commuter rail station, subway station, ferry terminal or bus station