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SD 2904

An Act to protect small lot ADUs

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Lydia Edwards

Massachusetts bill relaxes zoning restrictions to allow accessory dwelling units on small residential lots, expanding housing supply on existing properties.

Referred to the committee on Housing
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Bill Summary · SD 2904

Legislative bill overview

SD 2904 aims to facilitate the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on small residential lots in Massachusetts by removing or modifying existing regulatory barriers. The bill seeks to make it easier for homeowners to build secondary housing units on properties that might otherwise be too small to comply with current zoning restrictions. This addresses housing supply constraints by enabling more housing units on existing residential land.

Why is this important

Massachusetts faces a significant housing shortage and affordability crisis, with limited developable land and high construction costs. ADUs are an established strategy to increase housing supply without requiring new land development, potentially providing affordable rental options and allowing homeowners to offset mortgage costs. By specifically protecting small-lot ADUs, this bill targets underutilized residential properties that represent substantial untapped housing potential.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. state mandate: Communities may resist state-level requirements that override local zoning authority and comprehensive plans they've adopted
  • Neighborhood character concerns: Residents worry about increased density, parking pressures, and changes to single-family neighborhood character in their communities
  • Infrastructure capacity: Questions about whether water, sewer, and utility systems in existing neighborhoods can support additional housing units without costly upgrades
  • Rental market impacts: Unclear whether ADUs will primarily serve affordable housing goals or become market-rate rentals that don't address affordability for lowest-income residents

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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