Add space. Add value. Generate income.

Clear communication, reliable results

A proven process that delivers quality craftsmanship without surprises

Transparent updates

Step-by-step planning

Expert coordination

Skilled craftsmanship

Risk management

Trusted guidance

Complexity handled

Consistent quality

Client-focused

An ADU, or accessory dwelling unit, is a smaller living space built on the same property as your main home. Depending on your property and goals, it could be a backyard cottage, a garage conversion, a basement apartment, or an addition connected to your home. In simple terms, it is a way to create more usable living space without buying a new property.

Flexible Living Spaces

What Is an ADU?

Detached ADU

Garage Conversion

Attached Addition

Why More Massachusetts Homeowners Are Exploring ADUs

Homeowners choose ADUs to address practical needs like extra space, family flexibility, and property value growth.

Give family, guests, or adult children a comfortable place to stay without altering your main home.

Support Multi-Generational Living

Maintain privacy and independence while keeping loved ones close under one roof.

Increase Property Value

A well-designed ADU can enhance your property's market appeal and long-term worth.

Create Future Income Potential

Some homeowners build ADUs to add rental opportunities, depending on local regulations and usage.

Avoid the Cost of Moving

Adapt your existing property to meet changing needs instead of relocating from a neighborhood you value.

ADUs offer a practical solution for expanding living options while maximizing your current investment.

Flexible Space for Changing Needs

Use your ADU for home offices, guest suites, or hobby areas that evolve with your lifestyle.

Long-Term Home Investment

Building an ADU supports sustainable growth and adds lasting value to your property.

Building an ADU in Massachusetts depends on zoning laws, lot size, setbacks, and local regulations that vary by town. Understanding these factors early helps avoid delays.

Navigating Local Rules

Can You Build an ADU in Massachusetts?

Zoning Rules

Property Layout

Permitting Process

How Landmark Helps You Build an ADU with More Clarity and Less Guesswork

Property Review

01

We start by looking at your property, goals, and existing conditions to understand what may be possible.

02

Feasibility and Planning

We help identify the practical realities of the project, including layout, access, build approach, and key constraints.

03

Guidance Through Permitting and Requirements

We help you move through the planning and approval process with more clarity and fewer surprises.

04

Design-Build Coordination

From concept to construction, we focus on a solution that fits your property, your priorities, and your budget.

05

Professional Project Execution

Our team is built around reliable project management, craftsmanship, and clear communication from start to finish. Landmark emphasizes high-quality work, transparent partnership, and a streamlined client journey.

06

Project Support

You should not have to figure this all out alone. We help guide the process so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Why Homeowners Trust Landmark

Dependable management, clear communication, and expert craftsmanship.

Landmark kept me informed every step of the way, making the entire project smooth and stress-free.
Jessica M.
3 weeks ago
Michael R.
1 month ago

Their team delivered quality work on time and stayed transparent about progress and challenges.

Clear communication and reliable scheduling made all the difference in completing our ADU on budget.
Samantha L.
2 weeks ago
Landmark’s craftsmanship and attention to detail gave us confidence throughout the build.
David K.
4 weeks ago
Navigating Local Zoning & ADU Regulations

Understanding Municipal Roles in ADU Compliance

Massachusetts municipalities must align local zoning with the ADU Law by February 2, 2025. Any conflicting local provisions become unenforceable, ensuring Protected Use ADUs receive fair permitting without undue restrictions.

  • What happens if local zoning conflicts with the ADU Law?

    Zoning rules inconsistent with the ADU Law or Regulations are unenforceable after February 2, 2025. Protected Use ADUs cannot be subjected to disallowed local regulations during permitting.

    Municipalities must update zoning to comply, removing barriers that contradict state ADU provisions to facilitate lawful ADU development.

  • Does the EOHLC review or approve local ADU zoning?

    The statute does not require EOHLC approval of ADU zoning. Instead, the Attorney General’s Office reviews zoning amendments for consistency with state law, excluding city zoning ordinances.

    For more on the Attorney General’s review process, visit the Municipal Law Unit at Mass.gov.

  • What voting majority is needed to amend zoning for ADUs?

    A simple majority vote suffices to allow ADUs as of right under the Zoning Act. More permissive rules may require a super-majority or separate votes.

    Consult local legal counsel for guidance on voting thresholds and ordinance amendments.

  • Can multiple Protected Use ADUs be built on one lot with multi-unit dwellings?

    Only one Protected Use ADU is allowed by right per lot, regardless of multiple principal dwellings. Additional ADUs require a Special Permit.

    This ensures controlled development while allowing flexibility through local permitting processes.

  • Can municipalities restrict Protected Use ADUs to single-family homes only?

    No. Municipalities cannot limit Protected Use ADUs to single-family lots. Recent Attorney General decisions affirm ADUs must be allowed in multi-family properties as well.

    This broadens housing options and supports equitable access across property types.

  • Are municipalities allowed to limit ADU size below 900 square feet?

    No. Local zoning cannot restrict Protected Use ADUs to less than 900 square feet but may allow larger sizes.

    This standard protects minimum unit size while permitting local flexibility for larger ADUs.

  • Can cities impose rules on who may live in a Protected Use ADU?

    No. The ADU law prohibits municipalities from regulating occupancy based on tenant characteristics, such as prohibiting college students.

    Occupancy restrictions must comply with state law and cannot limit who may reside in an ADU.

Not Sure Where to Start? Start with a Property Review.

Assess your property's potential and next steps with expert guidance.

Request Your ADU Consultation

Landmark requires your home address to research zoning regulations, site constraints, and feasibility details related to your potential ADU project. This information is used solely to evaluate your property and will remain confidential.

Let's explore your options for an Accessory Dwelling Unit.

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8 Charlesview Rd, Hopedale, MA 01747

Phone

Office 508-482-0104

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