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Council adopts ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units in single- and two-family districts
Summary
Pittsfield’s City Council voted to amend the zoning code to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by right in one- and two-family residential districts and adopt state size and dimensional standards; the measure passed by roll call.
The Pittsfield City Council voted to ordain a zoning amendment that allows accessory dwelling units in single- and two-family residential districts, aligning the city code with recently adopted state ADU regulations.
Justine Dodds, director of Community Development, told the council the ordinance updates Chapter 23 (zoning) to define accessory uses and add a new subsection with specific ADU requirements. Kevin (last name not specified), the city planner, said the first ADU would be allowed by right in one- and two-family residential uses; additional ADUs on a property would be subject to a special permit. Special-permit authority will be the Zoning Board of Appeals except in the Downtown Creative District, where the Community Development Board would act.
Councilors spoke in support, citing housing scarcity, options to age in place and modest-scale additions. Councilor Kavey said ADUs offer opportunities for in‑law suites and downsizing; Councilor Costa and others said the ordinance incorporated Pittsfield‑specific adjustments while adopting the state’s size and dimensional standards.
The council held a public hearing with no speakers. A roll-call vote passed the ordinance with the required affirmative votes; the clerk recorded the ayes and the president declared the motion passed.
