For months, municipalities across the commonwealth have been asking the state to clarify its new accessory dwelling provision.
Some of those questions are now answered — in draft form.
The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities issued draft regulations for accessory dwelling units on Monday and announced a public comment period that will open Dec. 20.
Municipalities, housing advocates and other stakeholders will have until Jan. 10, 2025, to share concerns, questions and suggestions. The EOHLC will then issue final regulations by Feb. 2, when the provision goes into effect.
In August, Governor Maura Healey signed the Affordable Homes Act, the state’s most ambitious housing legislation to date, into law. Among the nearly 50 policy initiatives included in the act is a provision that sets a comprehensive definition for accessory dwelling units and removes restrictions that can slow or halt the construction of ADUs.