How do I add an Accessory Dwelling to my house?

An Accessory Dwelling is sometimes also called an in-law apartment, but it can be rented to people who are not related to you, and does not have to be an apartment. An Accessory Dwelling can be up to 750 sq. ft., or 40% of the living space of the main part of the house, whichever is larger. It can be attached to your house, or in a separate building. If it's in a separate building, that building must comply with required setbacks for a single family home.


You will need to prepare a site plan and floor plans, and have them approved by the Planning Board before you can get a building permit for adding an Accessory Dwelling. The entire process usually takes about two months because of notice and other legal requirements. Information about this process is available in Section 530 of the Scituate Zoning Bylaw, which can be found on the town's web site. You should be aware the Town may require a new water service and connection fee ($14,000) and there is an $8,000 fee for a sewer connection for an accessory dwelling unit.