An Act relative to the permitting and construction of accessory dwelling units

This bill amends Massachusetts zoning laws to prevent local municipalities from banning accessory dwelling units, such as backyard apartments, on single-family lots occupied by the owner. It requires cities and towns to allow these units as a standard right rather than mandating a special permit, thereby removing local restrictions that previously blocked their construction. Additionally, the legislation updates zoning amendment rules to streamline the approval process for multifamily housing and mixed-use developments in eligible areas. By centralizing these permitting standards, the bill aims to increase housing supply while limiting the ability of local governments to prohibit these specific types of residential additions.