State Overview

Massachusetts Zoning & Land Use Laws

Zoning regulations, ADU laws, short-term rental rules, and land use policies for Massachusetts. Source-cited from state legislation and municipal codes.

Total Cities

351

Total Counties

14

ADU State Law

Yes

Lot Split Law

No state law

Cottage Food Law

Yes

Cities With Data

1

Massachusetts ADU Law

Massachusetts has a statewide ADU law (Massachusetts Affordable Homes Act (Chapter 150, Acts of 2024) and MBTA Communities Act (Chapter 40A, Section 3A, 2021)). See the official source for key provisions and current requirements.

View full MassachusettsADU law details →

Cottage Food Law

Massachusetts has a cottage food law. See your state's official agriculture or health department website for current regulations and permit requirements.

State Preemption Active

Massachusetts state law preempts local zoning ordinances in several areas. Local governments cannot enact rules stricter than the state baseline.

Learn about Massachusettszoning preemption →

Recent Legislative Changes

2021MBTA Communities Act (Chapter 40A, Section 3A) · Verified June 25, 2026 · Source

See official source

2024Affordable Homes Act (Chapter 150 of the Acts of 2024) · Verified June 25, 2026 · Source

See official source

Massachusetts Cities with Zoning Data

Source: Massachusetts Affordable Homes Act (Chapter 150, Acts of 2024) and MBTA Communities Act (Chapter 40A, Section 3A, 2021). Last verified April 5, 2026. View source

Last updated: April 5, 2026
Massachusetts Zoning Laws & Building Regulations (2026) | PropertyZoned