ADU Rules: Attleboro vs New Bedford
How do adu rules rules compare between Attleboro, MA and New Bedford, MA?
Attleboro and New Bedford have similar restriction levels.
Attleboro, MA
Bristol County
Under Massachusetts law (Ch. 358 of Acts of 2024, effective Feb 2025), ADUs under 900 sq ft are allowed by right on single-family lots statewide, including Attleboro. ADUs must have a separate entrance and cannot exceed 900 sq ft or half the principal dwelling area. Both attached and detached ADUs are permitted.
View full Attleboro rules →New Bedford, MA
Bristol County
Under Massachusetts law (Ch. 358 of Acts of 2024, effective Feb 2025), ADUs under 900 sq ft are allowed by right on single-family lots. New Bedford's Planning Department has prepared an ADU zoning ordinance update. ADUs must have a separate entrance and cannot exceed 900 sq ft or half the principal dwelling area.
View full New Bedford rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Attleboro | New Bedford |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | Ch. 358 Acts of 2024 — by right | Ch. 358 Acts of 2024 — by right |
| Max Size | 900 sq ft or 50% of principal dwelling | 900 sq ft or 50% of principal dwelling |
| Types | Attached, internal, or detached | - |
| Owner Occupancy | Cannot be required by municipality | Cannot be required |
| Detached ADUs | - | Allowed per city zoning update |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Attleboro FAQ
Can I build an ADU on my property in Attleboro?
Under Massachusetts law (Ch. 358 of Acts of 2024, effective Feb 2025), ADUs under 900 sq ft are allowed by right on single-family lots statewide, including Attleboro. ADUs must have a separate entrance and cannot exceed 900 sq ft or half the principal dwelling area. Both attached and detached...
What are the size limits for an accessory dwelling unit in Attleboro?
State Law: Ch. 358 Acts of 2024 — by right. Max Size: 900 sq ft or 50% of principal dwelling. Types: Attached, internal, or detached. Owner Occupancy: Cannot be required by municipality.
New Bedford FAQ
Can I build an ADU on my property in New Bedford?
Under Massachusetts law (Ch. 358 of Acts of 2024, effective Feb 2025), ADUs under 900 sq ft are allowed by right on single-family lots. New Bedford's Planning Department has prepared an ADU zoning ordinance update. ADUs must have a separate entrance and cannot exceed 900 sq ft or half the...
What are the size limits for an accessory dwelling unit in New Bedford?
State Law: Ch. 358 Acts of 2024 — by right. Max Size: 900 sq ft or 50% of principal dwelling. Detached ADUs: Allowed per city zoning update. Owner Occupancy: Cannot be required.
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