Big News for Massachusetts Homeowners: ADUs Now Allowed Statewide — And Origin Studio Is Here to Help You Build Yours
- brian42564
- May 29
- 3 min read
Updated: May 30
May 2025
Massachusetts Homeowners: ADUs Now Allowed Statewide
A historic change arrived this year for homeowners across Massachusetts: as of February 2, 2025, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are now permitted by-right statewide. Thanks to the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s Affordable Homes Act, thousands of residents now have the opportunity to add an ADU to their property—without the red tape of special permits or zoning variances.
This is more than a policy update—it’s a game-changer for homeowners, renters, and families across the Commonwealth. And at Origin Studio, we’re especially thrilled. Why?
Because our Founder and CEO, Brian English, started Origin Studio in his Amherst, MA driveway and proudly watched the company soar to a national brand. Today, he's excited that MA policy reforms will allow him to help bring meaningful change back home—by making ADU ownership seamless, smart, and accessible.
What This Law Means for You
Before this new legislation, building an ADU was a challenge. Homeowners often faced outdated zoning laws, lengthy permitting processes, and a lot of “no's.” Now, that has changed.
Under the new law:
Homeowners can build an ADU by-right in any single-family zoning district.
The ADU can be up to 900 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling, whichever is smaller.
ADUs can be attached or detached, built over a garage, in a basement, or as a standalone unit in your yard.
A separate entrance is required—but owner occupancy is not.
Many towns no longer require additional off-street parking.
Whether you're looking to:
Create an in-law suite for aging parents,
Offer independent living for a loved one with special needs,
Add rental income to offset your mortgage,
Or build a private office or guest house—
ADUs just became easier, faster, and far more achievable for Massachusetts residents.
Why Origin Studio?
At Origin Studio, we specialize in making the ADU process effortless—from design and permitting to factory construction and final delivery. Our streamlined modular approach means:
Custom, modern designs
Faster build times
No on-site mess or delays
And expert guidance every step of the way
And whether Brian English is overseeing operations at the company's new Indiana headquarters or working from his Roslindale, MA home, he and the Origin Studio team understand the nuances of Massachusetts homes—from dense Boston neighborhoods to spacious suburban lots. Choosing Origin Studio means choosing a local, thoughtful approach tailored to your property and goals.
A New Era for Massachusetts Living
This isn’t just about construction—it’s about community transformation. As Governor Maura Healey shared, ADUs offer real solutions for families at every stage of life: seniors who want to age in place, young adults seeking independence, and homeowners eager to create new opportunities on their land.
According to MA New Listings' Accessory Dwelling Units Are Now Legal in Massachusetts, the legalization of accessory dwelling units in Massachusetts is expected to add thousands of new rental units across the state, helping to alleviate the housing shortage and providing more affordable options for residents. With an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 new ADUs expected over the next five years, now is the perfect time to explore what’s possible on your property.
Know you want an ADU but unsure how to make the most of your new space? Check out Massachusetts-based LeBlanc Interior Design, lead by Tiffany LeBlanc, at leblancdesign.com!
Ready to Get Started?
Let’s bring your vision to life.
Visit www.mass.gov/ADU to learn more about local guidelines Then reach out to Origin Studio — and let our team turn your backyard potential into a fully realized, high-quality living space
Massachusetts just opened the door. Origin Studio is here to walk through it with you.
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Origin Studio | Thoughtful. Modern. Effortless.Proudly led by Massachusetts native Brian Englishbrian@originstudio.design
