North Shore MA ADU Lookup

Find ADU zoning rules, permit requirements, and size limits for 25 North Shore Massachusetts municipalities.

25 of 25 municipalities

Amesbury

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Not addressed

Beverly

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Prohibited

Boxford

Site Plan Review

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Prohibited

Danvers

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Not addressed

Essex

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Not addressed

Gloucester

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Prohibited

Hamilton

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Prohibited

Ipswich

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Not addressed

Lynn

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Not addressed

Manchester-by-the-Sea

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Prohibited

Marblehead

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Prohibited

Middleton

Site Plan Review

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Prohibited

Nahant

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Prohibited

Newbury

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Prohibited

Newburyport

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Prohibited

Peabody

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Not addressed

Rockport

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Prohibited

Rowley

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Not addressed

Salem

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Prohibited

Salisbury

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Not addressed

Saugus

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Not addressed

Swampscott

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Prohibited

Topsfield

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Not addressed

Wenham

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Prohibited

West Newbury

By Right

Max size: 900 sq ft

Types: Attached, Detached, Internal

Parking: 1 space

STR: Not addressed

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need zoning approval for an ADU?

In most cases, no. Under the Massachusetts Affordable Homes Act (signed into law in 2024), ADUs up to 900 square feet are allowed by right on single-family lots, so no special permit or zoning variance is required. You still need a building permit, but the zoning hurdle has been removed for most homeowners.

What is the Stretch Energy Code?

The Stretch Energy Code is an optional, more stringent energy standard that over 250 Massachusetts municipalities have adopted. New ADUs in these towns must meet a HERS Index of 52–55, which means higher insulation, better air sealing, and more efficient HVAC systems. We build to these standards as part of every ADU project.

Will an ADU increase my property value?

Yes. Studies show that adding an ADU can increase property value by 20–30%, depending on the size, finish quality, and local market. Beyond resale value, an ADU generates rental income that can help offset your mortgage or fund retirement.

Why choose Don Perry Construction?

We specialize in ADU construction on the North Shore of Massachusetts. From ICF foundations to energy code compliance, we handle every phase in-house. You get a single point of contact with no juggling subcontractors, and a builder who understands MA permitting, the Stretch Energy Code, and local bylaws.

How long does it take to build an ADU?

Most ADU projects take 4 to 8 months from permits to move-in. The timeline breaks down into four stages: design and permitting (1–3 months), site work and foundation (2–4 weeks), framing and rough-ins (2–3 months), and finishes and inspections. We keep you informed at every stage.