Southborough ZBA discusses ADU bylaw gaps after fall town meeting changes

Zoning Board members used part of the Dec. 10 meeting to review recent accessory dwelling unit (ADU) bylaw changes passed at fall town meeting. Members said the current language (a 900-square-foot maximum or 50% of gross floor area, whichever is smaller) creates a gap that prevents owners of smaller homes from seeking a special permit when the 50% limit is restrictive.

Board members and staff discussed options including removing the percentage cap and allowing a special-permit route for units exceeding 900 square feet or the 50% default, and noted that any change would require explicit bylaw language and could be proposed as a warrant article for a future town meeting. Staff said the planning board had considered larger bylaw changes separately and that the ZBA could draft a focused amendment for consideration.