ADU Rules in New Bedford, Massachusetts

New Bedford is a Bristol County Gateway City with a population of about 101,000 on Buzzards Bay in southeastern Massachusetts. Once the richest city per capita in the world during the height of the whaling industry (immortalized in Moby-Dick), New Bedford is now home to one of the largest commercial fishing fleets in the US and New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. Massachusetts enacted a statewide ADU law (Chapter 150, Acts of 2024) requiring ADUs by right in single-family zones.

Massachusetts Statewide ADU Law (2024)

Massachusetts Chapter 150, Acts of 2024 requires municipalities to allow ADUs by right in single-family residential zoning districts. Verify how New Bedford has implemented this law.

New Bedford Zoning Ordinance

The City of New Bedford Zoning Ordinance governs land use in New Bedford city limits.

Permitted ADU Types

Per Massachusetts ADU law and New Bedford zoning (verify current standards):

• Basement and interior conversions: Common in New Bedford's dense 19th and early 20th-century housing
• Attached ADUs: With separate entrance
• Detached ADUs: In eligible residential zones

Size Limits

Per Massachusetts ADU law:

• ADU cannot exceed smaller of: primary dwelling or 900 square feet

Setbacks

Per New Bedford residential zone:

• Rear: Minimum setback
• Side: Minimum setback

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park

The National Historical Park encompasses much of downtown New Bedford's historic waterfront district. Properties within or adjacent to the NHP area may require review by the National Park Service and/or the New Bedford Historical Commission.

Massachusetts Chapter 91 — Buzzards Bay

New Bedford has extensive coastal areas on Buzzards Bay. Massachusetts Chapter 91 (Waterways Act) applies to tidelands and filled tidelands. Coastal flood zones affect waterfront properties.

Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act

Properties within 100 feet of wetlands or tidal areas are subject to the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act. New Bedford Conservation Commission review required.

Permit Process

1. Verify zoning and state ADU law: New Bedford Planning Division
2. Historic review: If in the NHP area or local historic district
3. Chapter 91 review: If near Buzzards Bay or tidal waters
4. Conservation Commission review: If near wetlands or coastal areas
5. Check flood zone: For coastal properties
6. Submit plans: New Bedford Building Department
7. Building permit and inspections
8. CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of New Bedford Planning Division 133 William Street, Room 201, New Bedford, MA 02740 Phone: (508) 979-1488 Website: newbedford-ma.gov

Disclaimer: Massachusetts statewide ADU law (2024) applies. National Historical Park and Chapter 91 coastal rules add complexity. Verify current standards before starting any project.