Accessory Structures in Lowell, MA (2026)
5 verified accessory structures rules for Lowell, Massachusetts, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Under the Massachusetts Affordable Homes Act of 2024 and MGL c.40A s.3A, ADUs up to 900 square feet are allowed by right on single-family lots in Lowell. The city updated its zoning to comply with the state ADU mandate effective February 2025.
Lowell ADU Rules
Few RestrictionsShed Rules
Sheds in Lowell generally require a building permit if over 120 square feet under the Massachusetts State Building Code. Smaller sheds are permit-exempt but must still meet zoning setbacks and may need historic review in designated districts.
Lowell Shed Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Lowell requires a building permit from the Development Services Department for any detached garage. Detached garages must be one (1) story in maximum height, set back at least 5 feet from side and rear property lines, and at least 10 feet from the principal structure on the same lot, with the front-yard setback determined by the underlying Lowell Zoning Ordinance district.
Detached Garage Permit & Height Rules in Lowell, MA
Some RestrictionsCity of Lowell Development Services — Detached Garage Permits (setback and height requirements)
Detached Garage Permits — About Detached Garage Permits. A detached garage must be located a minimum of five (5) feet from the side and rear property lines, a minimum of ten (10) feet from the principal structure on the same lot, and must be a maximum of 1 story in height. The front yard setbacks depend on the zoning requirements for the zoning district in which the property is located. Find pe...
Carport Rules
Carports are treated as accessory structures in Lowell and require a building permit if they exceed 120 square feet or are attached to the house. They must meet zoning setbacks and may not be located in the front yard setback.
Lowell Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Tiny homes on permanent foundations can qualify as ADUs in Lowell under the 2024 state ADU mandate up to 900 square feet. Tiny houses on wheels are generally not allowed as permanent dwellings because they are classified as RVs under state law.
Lowell Tiny Home Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Middlesex County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Lowell city rules.
Accessory Structures in Middlesex County →