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ADU Project Checklist
Massachusetts state law compliant • 8 phases • 40+ action items
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Massachusetts State Law Compliant
Updated for 760 CMR 71.00 - Protected Use ADU regulations (effective 2024)
Your Progress2 of 8 phases unlocked
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Phase 1: Determine Protected Use Status
Day 1- Calculate your ADU size: ≤900 sqft OR ≤50% of your home's GFA (whichever smaller)
- Measure your main house Gross Floor Area (exclude basement, attic, garage)
- Confirm you're in single-family zoning district (most residential areas)
- Verify you're not in Boston (only city exempt from MA ADU law)
- If Protected Use = BY-RIGHT approval (no special permit needed)
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Phase 2: Verify Local vs. State Law
Days 2-3- Research your town's ADU bylaws on official website
- Note any conflicting requirements (special permits, owner occupancy, type restrictions)
- Apply state law override for Protected Use ADUs (local conflicts are void)
- Check if your town is within 0.5 miles of MBTA station (parking waiver)
- Document state law citation (760 CMR 71.00) if you need to educate officials
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Unlock All 8 Phases
Get the complete MA state law compliant checklist with Protected Use guidance, pushback handling, and expert tips.
🔒 No spam. Updated for 2024 MA ADU law.
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Phase 3: Parking & Transit Check
Week 1📐
Phase 4: Design & Planning
Weeks 2-4📋
Phase 5: Building Permit Application (By-Right)
Weeks 3-5💪
Phase 6: Handle Pushback (If Needed)
As Needed🔨
Phase 7: Construction & Completion
Weeks 6-20🏡
Phase 8: Launch & Management
Ongoing🛡️MA Protected Use ADU Quick Reference
Qualifies if:≤900 sqft OR ≤50% GFA
Approval Process:By-Right (Building Permit Only)
Special Permit:PROHIBITED by State Law
Owner Occupancy:PROHIBITED by State Law
ADU Types:All Allowed (Internal/Attached/Detached)
Parking (Near Transit):WAIVED (Within 0.5 mi)
Legal Authority: 760 CMR 71.00 (MA ADU Regulations) • Contact: Claire Morehouse, EOHLC ADU Coordinator (Claire.Morehouse@mass.gov)
📚Essential Resources
📜 Check ADU Laws by State
See regulations, size limits, and requirements for all 50 states
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Ready to Start Your Protected Use ADU?
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