Up-to-Date Resources

Explore STATE & FINANCING resources:

• Massachusetts Housing Partnership ADU Incentive & Feasibility Program (launching soon):

  • Sign up to be notified when their program launches here.

    • Program Information

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MassHousing ADU Loan Products:

• https://www.masshousing.com/home-ownership/homeowners/adu

   

Home Modification Loan Program- building accessinle ADUs to age in place or for people with disabilities: https://www.cedac.org/HMLP

• Short Video about HMLP and ADUs

   

Massachusetts ADU Hub- state legal guidance:

• https://www.mass.gov/adu

   

ADU Design Challenge Showcase (free ADU designs):

• https://www.mass.gov/adu-design-challenge-showcase

   

Research Providers: Provider directory

• Connect early with your local municipality:

  • Health Department

    • Confirm your existing wastewater capacity and any next steps needed for an ADU

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Planning / Community Development Department

• Confirm local zoning, setbacks, and permitting requirements

• Once you’ve had a chance to explore providers and resources, a helpful next step is to reach out to key departments in your town or city:

   

Building relationships early—getting to know staff by name and asking questions upfront—can make the process smoother and more predictable as your project takes shape.

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) Technical Assistance

Please note that regulations, requirements, and funding opportunities may have changed since this content was published. We encourage you to verify current information with your local municipality and relevant agencies. For homeowners interested in creating ADUs, you can access the following information to make the process as easy as possible, including:

• Town Regulations – what your specific town mandates regarding special permits, lot size, unit size, parking, rental term (12 months or less), owner occupancy requirements, etc. –  For more information (Click Here)

• Septic - how to determine if your current septic capacity can accommodate an ADU and whether you are able to add capacity

• Permitting – how to apply for a special permit if one is needed prior to the normal building permit that your contractor will apply for

• Finding an Architect – a list of local architects that are willing to take your call and some sample ADU architectural plans – For more information (Click Here)

• Finding a Contractor – a list of local and licensed contractors that are familiar with building ADUs – For more information (Click Here)

• Finding a Lender – a list of local lenders with ADU specific loan programs – For more information (Click Here) 

• Budgeting – sample spreadsheets to help you create your ADU budget – For more information (Click Here)

• Incentives – understanding if you’re eligible for an incentive through the Lower Cape Housing & ADU Resource Center, and accessing other incentives your town may offer (Click Here)

• Landlord Education – access to landlord training, sample leases, etc. (Click Here)

• Online and hard copy information packages

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