Town to Present Results of Survey on Accessory Apartments

Planning officials will present this Monday the results of a survey on whether Arlington should amend its zoning bylaw to allow accessory apartments.

The presentation comes after an online survey of Town Meeting members on whether the town should allow accessory apartments, which are defined as a smaller second unit within a single-family home, usually for an older family member or nanny.

In the survey, officials ask if members would consider allowing accessory apartments, and if so, under what conditions. The conditions could include one of the units being owner occupied, lots having a minimum size requirement and asking owner to apply for a special permit, among others.

In an email, the explained several reasons why residents could be interested in exploring accessory apartments.

“It might be used by an older resident living in a large home for income, companionship, and/or help with property maintenance, or to allow a family member or nanny to live with, but separate from, a family,” the email said.

The results of the survey will be presented tonight, 7:30 p.m., at the . The board meets at Annex’s conference room on the second floor.