In Barnstable, an amnesty for existing but illegal apartments has been proposed. Falmouth has had a law since 1981 allowing large homes to be converted into as many as four apartments. In Sandwich, accessory dwelling units are allowed, with income certification required for the tenant - up to 125 percent of median income. To limit growth, towns restrict the number of units constructed each year. But many communities have added exemptions for projects that would provide affordable housing.
Towns can also give priority to affordable projects.
These developments go to the front of the line for building permits. In Aspen, there is a building cap of 50,000 square feet per year. Projects that are 70 percent or more affordable are exempt. Provincetown limits the impact of new construction because of a meager water supply. That translates to a building cap limit of 26 bedrooms and 20 restaurant seats a year.