Accessory Structures in Wellesley, MA (2026)
3 verified accessory structures rules for Wellesley, Massachusetts, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Wellesley regulates ADUs under Section 5.13 of the Wellesley Zoning Bylaw. At the April 2025 Annual Town Meeting, Wellesley adopted Article 40.1 to amend its ADU bylaw, and the Massachusetts Attorney General approved the changes effective April 15, 2025. As of April 15, 2025, detached ADUs are permitted by-right in Single Residence Districts; a Special Permit is no longer required, consistent with the state Affordable Homes Act.
Wellesley ADU Bylaw (Section 5.13)
Few RestrictionsShed Rules
Wellesley's Building Department exempts one-story sheds/accessory buildings of 100 square feet or less from a building permit, but they must still comply with Zoning Bylaw Section 19(B). Sheds cannot be placed within the first 30 feet of a lot abutting a roadway; side and rear yard setbacks do not apply. Anything over 100 sq ft needs a permit and a certified plot plan.
Wellesley, MA Shed & Accessory Structure Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Wellesley allows garage conversions to ADUs under Wellesley Zoning Bylaw §5.13 (as amended April 15, 2025 by Article 40.1) consistent with Section 8 of the Massachusetts Affordable Homes Act. Converted garage ADUs are by-right in Single Residence Districts with a building permit from the Inspector of Buildings and an annual Certificate of Compliance from the Planning Department.
Wellesley Garage Conversion to ADU
Few RestrictionsLooking for Norfolk County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Wellesley city rules.
Accessory Structures in Norfolk County →