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Planning board recommends ADU zoning amendments to match new state law
Summary
The planning board voted 4‑0 to recommend zoning changes that make accessory dwelling units (ADUs) allowed by right in Westborough, permit detached ADUs, remove owner‑occupancy requirements, and retain a local 1,000 sq ft cap.
The Westborough Planning Board voted unanimously on Feb. 18 to recommend a zoning article to update the town’s accessory dwelling unit (ADU) rules to reflect recent state legislation. Planner Jenny Gingris told the board the changes align local rules with the August 2024 changes to the state zoning law intended to expand housing options.
Under the proposed amendment, ADUs would be allowed by right in single‑family zones (attached or detached) and would no longer require a discretionary special permit. The article removes the town’s owner‑occupancy requirement and limits parking requirements for ADUs to no more than one space unless the unit is located more than a half‑mile from a train or bus station. The town retained a local size limit of 1,000 square feet (the state statute sets a 900‑square‑foot threshold). Short‑term rentals would be prohibited for ADUs.
Gingris told the board these are ministerial changes required or permitted by the statute so the town is updating its bylaw to reflect what the state allows. After brief discussion the board voted 4‑0 to recommend passage of the ADU article at the March 22 annual town meeting.
What’s next: The planning department will present the motion to the Advisory Finance Committee and the article will appear on the town meeting warrant on March 22.
