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Norwell expands rules for accessory dwelling units, allows larger units by special permit
Summary
Town Meeting adopted two Planning Board proposals to allow 'Protected' ADUs as‑of‑right (size limit: up to 900 sq ft or half the principal dwelling) and to permit larger ADUs by special permit, with restrictions including Title 5/Board of Health sewage compliance and a recorded covenant prohibiting short‑term rentals.
Norwell voters approved two zoning changes to regulate accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Article 35 establishes a Protected ADU as an as‑of‑right use in single‑family districts with objective standards; Article 36 creates a special‑permit path for larger or otherwise non‑protected ADUs.
Under the new rules adopted in Article 35, a Protected ADU must be no larger than 900 square feet or one‑half the gross floor area of the principal dwelling, whichever is smaller; it must have a separate entrance and at least one dedicated parking space while the principal dwelling must retain a minimum of two parking spaces. ADU applicants must document sewage disposal compliance with Title 5 and Board of Health regulations and record a covenant prohibiting short‑term rental use on the property before occupancy. The Planning Board’s motion and the Advisory Board’s unanimous recommendation were adopted by Town Meeting.
Article 36 allows the Planning Board to issue a special permit for an Interior or Detached Non‑Protected ADU up to 1,300 sq ft (subject to setback, frontage and other zoning constraints), with conditions including a requirement that either the principal dwelling or the ADU be owner‑occupied, a determination that the property will maintain a single‑family appearance, and Title 5/Board of Health documentation.
Why it matters: The changes are intended to increase housing options, enable homeowners to earn rental income, and create options for multigenerational households while preserving neighborhood character and ensuring septic and parking adequacy. The recorded covenant and Title 5 confirmation are intended to limit short‑term rental use and ensure health/sanitary compliance.
Next steps: Property owners seeking to add ADUs should consult the Building Department and Board of Health for site‑specific requirements; the Assessor will report assigned ADU addresses to MassGIS as required by the motion.
