Bedford Addresses Accessory Dwelling Revisions

BEDFORD, MA — The Bedford Planning Board held its public hearing on Jan. 14 on the subject of a zoning amendment relating to Accessory Dwelling Units. The board decided in December to propose a revised version of the zoning amendment, which would give neighbors more opportunity for involvement in plans for detached ADUs, after the original amendment narrowly failed to gain a two-thirds majority at the fall Special Town Meeting.

After receiving comments, closing the hearing and discussing suggestions received for further changes, the board asked staff to draft a further revised version, changing the minimum rear yard setback for detached ADUs from 15 feet to 20 feet. For context, this compares with the 10 foot setback for other accessory buildings and 30 foot setback for principal buildings i.e. the main house.

The board also asked for language to be added to the bylaw to indicate how any ADUs proposed on nonconforming properties will be handled. The revised version of the bylaw amendment will be included in the Town Meeting warrant before it is finalized by the Selectmen.