Town Meeting Amends Zoning Bylaw for Accessory Dwelling Units
Key Points
- - The bylaw change brings Hingham into compliance with new state laws requiring ADUs to be allowed "by right."
- - The previous requirement for a special permit for detached ADUs is now unenforceable and has been removed.
- - The amendment is part of a statewide push to increase housing supply.
- - The article passed unanimously with a two-thirds majority vote required.
Hingham Town Meeting voted to amend its zoning bylaw to align with new state laws regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The changes in Article 41, which passed unanimously, primarily bring the town into compliance with the state's Affordable Homes Act, which mandates that communities must allow ADUs "by right."
Previously, Hingham had updated its bylaw in 2023 to allow detached ADUs, but required a special permit. Planning Board member Gordon Carr explained that the new state law renders that special permit requirement unenforceable. This bylaw amendment removes the special permit requirement and other outdated provisions to ensure Hingham's zoning is consistent with state law.
The amendment will allow for the creation of one ADU per lot by right, subject to certain local regulations that are still permissible under the state law. This change is part of a broader state-level effort to encourage the creation of more housing options within existing residential neighborhoods.