Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Housing Adus topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council refers hearing on legalizing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) citywide
Summary
Councilor Ricardo Santana introduced a resolution to hold a hearing on legalizing accessory dwelling units by right citywide; council referred the matter to the Planning, Development and Transportation Committee with multiple councilors added as cosponsors.
The Boston City Council voted to refer a request for a hearing on legalizing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by right across Boston to the Committee on Planning, Development and Transportation.
Councilor Ricardo Santana, sponsor of docket 1718, said ADUs — small units inside or adjacent to single-family homes — can expand housing options for seniors who want to age in place and for young adults seeking more affordable independence. Santana noted that Mattapan has already adopted a pro-ADU policy and that a recent statewide ADU law leaves Boston exempt from automatic citywide by-right ADUs under current zoning.
Councilor Enrique Pepin, an original cosponsor, said streamlined ADU options can help families accommodate aging parents and provide rental income to offset housing costs. Councilor Ed Flynn asked that the Boston Fire Department and Inspectional Services be part of future hearings to ensure ADU proposals maintain fire- and life-safety standards, including egress and code compliance.
Councilor Durkin supported citywide consideration and noted that elements of ADU policy appear in long-standing local zoning in some neighborhoods. The council added several cosponsors and referred docket 1718 to the Planning, Development and Transportation Committee for detailed review and a public hearing.
