My parents are starting to need constant care. Can I add an in-law or accessory apartment to my single-family home?

Yes w/conditions. Under s.4.2.9 of the zoning bylaws, the owner of a single-family dwelling can add an accessory apartment to the dwelling with the proper permits provided that the design meets all of the conditions and requirements set forth in s.4.2.9.2. Once you have reviewed the conditions and requirements, you may download the Accessory Apartment Information packet and fill out the accessory apartment checklist to see if your design complies with s.4.2.9.2.

Please be aware that if your design involves the construction of an addition onto your existing dwelling you must make sure that the addition meets the minimum setback distances from your property lines and other applicable zoning requirements otherwise you may have to modify your design or seek relief through the Zoning Board of Appeals. Also, please be aware that your addition may trigger a review/approval by the Conservation Commission if the addition is within a certain distance from wetland boundaries.

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1. I would like to have some work done on my home. Do I need a building permit?
2. What if I’m just re-shingling my roof, installing new replacement windows and/or re-siding my home; do I still need a building permit?
3. Why do I even need a permit?
4. What information do I need to submit to the building inspector to allow me to do work on my home?
5. You said I needed to submit a certified plot plan with my permit application. What is that, why do I need this and where do I get one?
6. At the closing, the bank gave me a mortgage inspection plot plan. Can I use that?
7. How much does a permit cost?
8. How long does it take to issue a permit?
9. What happens if I don’t pull a building permit?
10. I’d like to install a swimming pool on my property. What do I need to do?
11. I’d like to install a shed/detached garage on my property. What do I need to do?
12. I need to get an inspection for the work that was performed on my property. How do I schedule an inspection?
13. I own my own home. Can I pull my own permits or do I need a licensed contractor?
14. Do I need a permit to have a yard sale on my property?
15. Can I put up signs advertising my yard sale?
16. My parents are starting to need constant care. Can I add an in-law or accessory apartment to my single-family home?
17. I’m thinking about building an addition onto my house or maybe a detached accessory garage. How close can I go to my property lines?
18. I have a boat that I need to store for the winter. Can I store it on my property?
19. I have a recreational trailer that I need to store for the winter. Can I store it on my property?
20. Can I store my unregistered vehicle on my property?
21. I’m thinking about starting my own business and working out of my home. Is this allowed?
22. The company I work for let’s me take the company vehicle home with me. Am I allowed to park this commercial vehicle in the driveway of my single-family home?