Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Massachusetts

Resources for MetroWest Homeowners

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a small, independent living space located on the same property as an existing home. Whether you’re looking to create housing for an aging parent, an adult child, a caregiver, or generate rental income, ADUs can provide flexible housing options while increasing the value and functionality of your property. Massachusetts has recently expanded opportunities for homeowners through new legislation, financial assistance programs, and technical resources. The information below will help you understand the process, explore available programs, and determine whether an ADU may be right for you.

Learn the Basics

ADUs 101 (JALSA)
An introductory presentation explaining Massachusetts’ new ADU law, the different types of ADUs, their benefits, planning considerations, construction costs, financing options, and the overall development process.

Massachusetts Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Initiative
The Commonwealth’s official guide explaining Massachusetts’ new ADU law, homeowner requirements, key regulations, frequently asked questions, and additional state resources for building an ADU.

Massachusetts ADU Resource Center
A centralized collection of educational resources and guidance for homeowners interested in building an ADU.

Financial Assistance & Feasibility

Massachusetts Housing Partnership (MHP) ADU Incentive Program
Learn about the statewide program that helps homeowners evaluate whether an ADU is feasible through professional site assessments, preliminary designs, zoning reviews, utility evaluations, and estimated construction costs.

MassHousing ADU Construction Loan Program
Information about second mortgage loans of up to $250,000 available to eligible low- and moderate-income homeowners to help finance ADU construction.

Planning, Design & Construction

Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) ADU Resources
A comprehensive collection of statewide resources covering planning, financial feasibility, energy efficiency, and other tools to help homeowners successfully develop an ADU.

Backyard ADU
A Massachusetts-based modular ADU builder offering educational resources, recorded webinars, and information about modular ADU construction.

Mass ADU Design Challenge
Explore innovative ADU concepts and designs highlighted through the Governor’s statewide design challenge.

State Regulations & Policy

Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC)
Official state guidance on Massachusetts’ “by-right” ADU regulations, policy information, and additional homeowner resources.

News & Success Stories

Boston Goes Big on Little Homes (WGBH)
Read about how communities across Massachusetts are embracing ADUs and the growing interest among homeowners.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

If you live in the MetroWest region and are interested in learning whether your property may be a good fit for an Accessory Dwelling Unit, we’d love to help. Click here and complete the inquiry form, and a JFS representative will contact you to discuss your property, answer your questions, and help you explore the options available to you.