Provincetown ADU Regulations

Section 1: Purpose and Intent

The Town of Provincetown has established ADU regulations to address the housing crisis on Cape Cod by creating additional affordable housing options while preserving the character of existing neighborhoods. These regulations are designed to provide flexible housing arrangements for families, seniors, and year-round residents.

Section 2: Definitions

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a self-contained residential unit with its own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping facilities, located on the same lot as a primary single-family dwelling.

2.1 Key Terms

Section 3: Eligibility and Requirements

3.1 Lot and Property Requirements

• Eligible Zones: ADUs are permitted in all residential zoning districts
• Minimum Lot Size: Subject to local dimensional requirements
• One ADU Per Lot: Only one ADU is permitted per single-family lot

3.2 Owner Occupancy Requirements

Massachusetts state law prohibits owner-occupancy requirements for ADUs. Property owners are not required to live in either the primary dwelling or the ADU.

3.3 Size Limitations

• Maximum Size: 900 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling's habitable area (state minimum applies)
• Design Standards: Must comply with local building and zoning codes

3.4 Design Requirements

• Architectural Compatibility: ADU should be compatible with the character of the neighborhood
• Entrance Requirements: Separate entrance permitted
• Privacy Considerations: Design should respect neighboring properties

Section 4: Parking Requirements

State law limits parking requirements to a maximum of one space per ADU.

• Number of Spaces: Maximum of one parking space required
• Location: On-site parking preferred
• Access: Must comply with local access requirements

Section 5: Utility Requirements

5.1 Water and Sewer/Septic

ADUs must comply with Title 5 regulations and Board of Health requirements. Connection to municipal sewer system required where available.

5.2 Electric and Gas

ADUs may have separate or shared utility meters as appropriate for the property configuration.

Section 6: Occupancy and Use Restrictions

6.1 Rental Requirements

ADUs may be rented subject to local rental registration requirements. Short-term rentals may be subject to additional regulations.

6.2 Occupancy Limitations

Occupancy limits follow standard residential occupancy codes.

Section 7: Approval Process

7.1 Application Requirements

Applications for ADUs require standard building permit documentation including site plans, floor plans, and proof of compliance with zoning requirements.

7.2 Review Process

ADUs are typically permitted by-right through the Building Department, subject to compliance with all applicable codes and regulations.

7.3 Special Permits

Special permits may be required for ADUs that require dimensional variances or have other special circumstances.

Section 8: Enforcement

The Building Commissioner and Code Enforcement Officer are responsible for enforcing ADU regulations. Violations may result in fines and orders to correct non-compliant conditions.

Section 9: Additional Provisions Specific to Provincetown

Provincetown's ADU regulations must comply with both local bylaws and state requirements under the Affordable Homes Act. Where conflicts exist, state law prevails.