ADU Rules: Somerset vs Taunton
How do adu rules rules compare between Somerset, MA and Taunton, MA?
Somerset and Taunton have similar restriction levels.
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 →Taunton, 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 Taunton. ADUs must have a separate entrance and cannot exceed 900 sq ft or half the principal dwelling area. Building permits are required.
View full Taunton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Somerset | Taunton |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Applies Countywide | All municipalities must allow | - |
| Owner Occupancy | Cannot be required | Cannot be required by municipality |
| Effective Date | - | February 2, 2025 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Taunton FAQ
Can I build an ADU on my property in Taunton?
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 Taunton. ADUs must have a separate entrance and cannot exceed 900 sq ft or half the principal dwelling area. Building permits are required.
What are the size limits for an accessory dwelling unit in Taunton?
State Law: Ch. 358 Acts of 2024 — by right. Max Size: 900 sq ft or 50% of principal dwelling. Effective Date: February 2, 2025. Owner Occupancy: Cannot be required by municipality.
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