Massachusetts Sees Surge in ADU Permits, Fueled by New Housing Law

The Healey administration notes that a state law aimed at streamlining the approval and construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on residential properties is gaining momentum across the Commonwealth.

According to an Eagle-Tribune report, last year, the state received 1,639 statewide ADU applications, with 1,224 projects ultimately permitted by local building departments, according to the state Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.

In a statement, Gov. Maura Healey noted that the new data indicate that homeowners are taking advantage of the new law. She pledged “to keep making it easier and cheaper to build ADUs so we can bring down housing costs for everyone. 

 “ADUs are one of the most practical ways to add homes and lower costs,” she said. “They allow older adults to age near their loved ones and young adults to live independently while starting their careers.”

According to the Eagle-Tribune, in the region north of Boston, Lawrence had the largest number of approved ADUs last year, 34, which numbered among the top 10 in the state. Methuen reported 21 and found itself in the top 10 for ADU approvals. Haverhill recorded 13. Beverly had 12, Salem had nine, and Newburyport had eight projects, according to the agency.

In August 2024, Healey signed a $5.1 billion housing bill. That bill included bonding, policy changes, tax breaks, and other incentives to promote the development of new homes. The bill also authorized accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to be constructed “by right” in single-family zoning districts in all communities. 

In December 2025, Healey rolled out a new Massachusetts Housing Partnership program to assist homeowners with building ADUs, an initiative supported by $10 million in available funding.

Real estate industry reports continue to point out that Massachusetts has some of the highest housing costs in the nation. The median price of a single-family home reached a record $641,000 last December.