5 rules for unincorporated Essex County, Massachusetts.
Verified from official government sources
Since February 2025, every Essex County town must allow one accessory dwelling unit by right on a single-family lot. No special permit is allowed, and the ADU can be up to 900 square feet.
MGL c.40A §3
No zoning ordinance or by-law shall prohibit, unreasonably restrict or require a special permit or other discretionary zoning approval for the use of land or structures for a single accessory dwelling unit, or the rental thereof, in a single-family residential zoning district
A one-story storage shed of 200 square feet or less needs no state building permit in Essex County towns. Zoning setbacks still apply, and larger sheds require a full building permit.
780 CMR 51.00 R105.2
One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses provided that the floor area does not exceed 200 ft2 (18.58 m2).
Converting a garage into living space in Essex County towns requires a building permit for the framing, insulation, egress, and wiring. If the new space becomes an accessory dwelling unit, state law now allows it by right.
MGL c.40A §3
No zoning ordinance or by-law shall prohibit, unreasonably restrict or require a special permit or other discretionary zoning approval for the use of land or structures for a single accessory dwelling unit, or the rental thereof, in a single-family residential zoning district
A carport is a roofed structure attached to or beside a home and needs a building permit in Essex County towns. It is not covered by the small-shed permit exemption, and zoning setbacks apply.
A tiny home on a permanent foundation in Essex County towns must meet the full state building code and can qualify as an accessory dwelling unit if it stays within 900 square feet. Tiny homes on wheels are treated as recreational vehicles, not dwellings.
MGL c.40A §3
No zoning ordinance or by-law shall prohibit, unreasonably restrict or require a special permit or other discretionary zoning approval for the use of land or structures for a single accessory dwelling unit, or the rental thereof, in a single-family residential zoning district
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