ADU Rules: New Bedford vs Somerset
How do adu rules rules compare between New Bedford, MA and Somerset, MA?
New Bedford and Somerset have similar restriction levels.
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 →Somerset, 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 in all Bristol County municipalities. Towns cannot prohibit ADUs or impose owner-occupancy requirements. Both attached and detached ADUs are permitted under the state framework.
View full Somerset rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | New Bedford | Somerset |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Detached ADUs | Allowed per city zoning update | - |
| Owner Occupancy | Cannot be required | Cannot be required |
| Applies Countywide | - | All municipalities must allow |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Somerset FAQ
Can I build an ADU on my property in 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 in all Bristol County municipalities. Towns cannot prohibit ADUs or impose owner-occupancy requirements. Both attached and detached ADUs are permitted under the...
What are the size limits for an accessory dwelling unit in Bristol County?
State Law: Ch. 358 Acts of 2024 — by right. Max Size: 900 sq ft or 50% of principal dwelling. Applies Countywide: All municipalities must allow. Owner Occupancy: Cannot be required.
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