Accessory Dwelling Unit Bylaw Update 2025/26

The State Legislature addressed Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in the August 2024 Affordable Homes Act, allowing ADUs of 900 square feet "by right" in all single-family districts. The State Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) has issued draft State guidelines, and will offer a model ADU bylaw in the New Year. EOHLC provides reasoning for changing the State Zoning Act regarding Accessory Dwelling Units. REASONING FOUND HERE  

Littleton does have an ADU bylaw – our “Accessory Apartments” bylaw. The Town should consider updating this bylaw to both meet the new State requirements and to maintain details regarding the goals of Littleton residents.  Timeframe for this zoning bylaw update is not yet finalized, but your input is always appreciated.

Materials for January 8th PB Meeting:

• Updated ADU Draft Bylaw - January 8, 2026
• Proposed ADU Bylaw Overview Presentation - January 8, 2026

Making the ADU Bylaw more ADU-Friendly Suggestions - January 2, 2026

Materials for November 13th PB Meeting:

• Updated Draft Bylaw - November 5, 2025
• ADU Discussion Presentation - November 13, 2025
• Draft Bylaw - October 2025

Littleton's Existing "Accessory Apartments Bylaw"

• Article XIII Accessory Apartments Bylaw w/ Highlights
• DEFINITIONS related to Accessory Apartments and ADUs w/ Highlights
• USE REGULATIONS related to Accessory Apartments and ADUs w/ Highlights

Slides for Nov. 13, 2025 ADU Discussion

ADU Updates:

• State ADU Press Release - September 26, 2025

ADUs In Practice - EOHLC

• EOHLC Presentation to MAPC - October 2, 2025

Short-Term Rentals Survey:

• Final Community Survey Results: Closed February 27, 2025
• Community Survey Results: As of January 30, 2025

State Overview: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/accessory-dwelling-units

Metropolitan Area Planning Council Overview: https://www.mapc.org/resource-library/adu-massachusetts/

Littleton’s ADU-like Bylaw: https://ecode360.com/32920445#32920445