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🏗️ Accessory Structures/ADU Rules

ADU Rules: Boston vs Revere

How do adu rules rules compare between Boston, MA and Revere, MA?

Boston and Revere have similar restriction levels.

Boston, MA

Suffolk County

Some Restrictions

ADUs are now allowed by right statewide in Massachusetts under the 2024 Affordable Homes Act, with a maximum of 900 square feet. Boston cannot require owner-occupancy or special permits for protected ADUs.

View full Boston rules →

Revere, MA

Suffolk County

Some Restrictions

ADUs are now allowed by right statewide under MA Affordable Homes Act (Ch. 150, Acts of 2024, §8, effective Feb 2, 2025). Max 900 sq ft or 50% of dwelling. Revere's former two-year owner-occupancy requirement is no longer enforceable. City is considering a home rule petition to regain local control.

View full Revere rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactBostonRevere
Max Size900 sq ft or 50% of home900 sq ft or 50% of principal dwelling
ApprovalBy right statewide-
Owner-OccupancyCannot be requiredNo longer required under state law
Transit ParkingNone within 0.5 mi-
State Law-MA Affordable Homes Act §8 (Feb 2025)
Local Status-Home rule petition under consideration

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Boston FAQ

Can I build an ADU on my property in Boston?

ADUs are now allowed by right statewide in Massachusetts under the 2024 Affordable Homes Act, with a maximum of 900 square feet. Boston cannot require owner-occupancy or special permits for protected ADUs.

What are the size limits for an accessory dwelling unit in Boston?

Max Size: 900 sq ft or 50% of home. Approval: By right statewide. Owner-Occupancy: Cannot be required. Transit Parking: None within 0.5 mi.

Revere FAQ

Can I build an ADU on my property in Revere?

ADUs are now allowed by right statewide under MA Affordable Homes Act (Ch. 150, Acts of 2024, §8, effective Feb 2, 2025). Max 900 sq ft or 50% of dwelling. Revere's former two-year owner-occupancy requirement is no longer enforceable. City is considering a home rule petition to regain local control.

What are the size limits for an accessory dwelling unit in Revere?

State Law: MA Affordable Homes Act §8 (Feb 2025). Max Size: 900 sq ft or 50% of principal dwelling. Owner-Occupancy: No longer required under state law. Local Status: Home rule petition under consideration.

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