Press Release: 2025-01-10

CHAPA Submits Feedback to EOHLC on Draft ADU Regulations

 

Post date

January 9, 2025

Matt Noyes 

Director of Public Policy

In December, the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) released draft regulations regarding the by-right siting of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as established in the Affordable Homes Act (AHA).  This portion of the law is due to go into effect on February 2, 2025.  

 

Following the release of the draft regulations, EOHLC held two information webinars.  These were followed by a public comment period that began on December 20 and ends on January 10.  Also on January 10, EOHLC will hold a public hearing to solicit verbal feedback on the regulations.  This hearing will take place both in-person at EOHLC's offices and online via Zoom.  CHAPA will be providing verbal comments at that hearing. 

 

Today, CHAPA submitted written feedback to EOHLC on the regulations.  In these comments, we applaud the agency for crafting the regulations in such a way as to encourage the development of ADUs and to discourage potential efforts to put up barriers to the creation of these new housing options that have the potential to be an important tool to address Massachusetts' housing needs.  CHAPA also provided feedback on areas where the regulations could be strengthened, particularly with respect to pre-existing nonconforming lots, facilitating utility connections, preventing undue restrictions on occupancy of of ADUs, and on assistance to ADU owners.  

 

CHAPA looks forward to continuing to work with EOHLC and the Healey/Driscoll Administration on the implementation of the AHA and other efforts to build the homes our Commonwealth needs to thrive.