On February 2, a new state law allowing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) by right in all residential districts went into effect. Newton has allowed ADUs since 1987, but our current ordinances are more restrictive than the state statute. The Zoning and Planning Committee of the City Council is currently considering amendments that will bring our local provisions into line with state requirements – eliminating standards on design, setbacks, owner occupancy, etc.  The current limits are no longer enforceable, and Newton for Everyone hopes that these ‘necessary’ amendments will be approved on March 10.

That public hearing will also provide an opportunity to consider additional amendments proposed by Councilor Susan Albright and supported by Newton for Everyone:

• Increase to 1200 square feet the by-right size of ADUs, whether internal to the existing home or in a separate building. The state statute says that ADUs of up to 900 square feet must be allowed, but an increase to 1200 square feet makes sense in Newton. It can be challenging to design a 900-square-foot ADU within the configuration of some of our turn-of-the-century Victorians and Colonials. Also, the slightly larger units are a more appealing option for people who want to stay in Newton, as they may downsize their personal residence and rent their primary dwelling.

• Increase by-right size of ADUs in historically significant accessory buildings, allowing the creation of an ADU within the entire square footage of an existing historic carriage house or barn. Limiting the ADU to less than the entire square footage of such a building discourages such investment. This change would not add to the footprint of buildings on the site.

What you can do

In the almost 40 years since Newton passed its first accessory dwelling unit ordinance, we have only constructed 121 of them. Newton for Everyone supports the swift passage of the ‘necessary’ amendments plus these additional amendments to make it possible to build more badly needed residences in our community.

Please show your support by writing the City Council.