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Step 1: Adopt an AIRD for your town

Zoning bylaws determine what housing can be built, and many existing rules make affordable housing difficult and costly to create. The proposed Model Bylaw establishes an optional Attainable Infill Residential District (AIRD) to support affordable, year-round housing in walkable neighborhoods. It streamlines approval for projects with long-term affordability while preserving local character and public input.

Adopt the program in your town using the Model Bylaw. For more information and assistance about program adoption, reach out to the Cape Cod Commission.

Step 2: Confirm your site is an eligible location

Section 1A of the Zoning Act defines “eligible locations” as areas well-suited for residential or mixed-use smart growth or starter home zoning due to infrastructure, transit access, underutilized facilities, or location, such as near transit stations, town centers, commercial districts, and rural village districts.

The Cape Cod Catalog of Dwelling Building Plans offers affordable, pre-approved infill housing designs that fit Cape Cod’s character. Towns may grant zoning allowances for projects using these plans. A key step in adopting a Housing Choice Initiative Catalog of Dwellings (HCI COD) is creating a map of “eligible locations” where these allowances apply.

Towns should consider:

  • Access to existing or planned sanitary sewer
  • Activity centers and transportation corridors
  • Walkable or bikeable access to jobs/services
  • Planned or current transit routes
  • Underutilized facilities (e.g., parking lots <75% used)
  • Concentrated development areas (town centers, commercial districts, village centers)

Section 5 does not specify who determines “eligible location” status, so towns should do this town-wide in advance, rather than case-by-case.

Before adopting a zoning bylaw, a public hearing is required. The planning board must submit a report to town meeting or city council (or wait 21 days post-hearing). This report should state whether the affected land is an eligible location, if relevant to the voting threshold.

If unclear, a town or city (via select board, mayor, city council, or planning board, not individual members) may request an Advisory Opinion from the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC). Requests should be submitted online early in the process, and EOHLC aims to respond within 30 days.

Step 3: Figure out what fits on your site

Start by identifying natural features like significant trees, shrubs, and landforms that should be preserved whenever feasible. Use the Site Plan Checklist and Site Plan Approaches to guide your layout while considering important constraints such as setbacks, utility easements, and required green or private space. Make sure to account for necessary elements like building footprints, parking (on-street or off-street), and access routes, minimizing site disturbance wherever possible. Thoughtful planning can help balance functional needs with environmental sensitivity and regulatory requirements.

Hire us to plan your site!

Step 4: Pick your plan(s)

Choosing the right home starts with the right plan. Our catalog features 15 thoughtfully designed, pre-approved plans that balance architectural quality, local character, and functional living space.

Browse the Catalog of Dwellings to explore a range of floor plans and exterior styles, from compact cottages and ADUs to small multi-family homes. Whether you're building for your family, creating a rental unit, or adding to the community's housing mix, there's a plan to meet your needs and your neighborhood’s character.

Construction of pre-approved buildings should closely follow the approved drawings, details, specifications, and program guide. Some homeowner variations can enhance architectural variety and address practical challenges.

Each town adopting the program will decide how much variation is allowed. Homeowners and builders should consult their local building office before modifying pre-approved plans. The program’s non-exclusive license does not protect against liability if changes cause code non-compliance. Generally, reasonable variations, especially minor, non-structural interior changes without code impacts, are recommended.

Explore the Allowable Variations here.

Shop The Plans

Step 5: Apply for construction financing

Applying for construction financing in Cape Cod starts with a clear understanding of your approved housing plans, site survey requirements, and any additional engineering needs for septic or soil conditions. After selecting your house plan(s), approach a local lender or bank to learn about the types of construction loans they offer. Submit a formal loan application for construction financing with the required documentation (e.g. plans, a detailed construction budget, contractor information, proof of land ownership or purchase agreement, personal financial documents, etc.). The lender will review your application, order an appraisal based on the plans, and determine loan eligibility. Once approved, funds are typically disbursed in stages as construction progresses.

Step 6: Apply for a building permit

Purchase the selected Permit Set. You’ll need to provide your project address and sign the License and Terms of Use Agreement. Once complete, you'll receive a permit set with a unique serial number, expected within three business days.

Apply for any required approvals for your unique project and site (e.g. board of health, zoning board of appeals, historic district approvals, and energy rating/certification). Confirm that your permit site plan is complete with all of the information necessary for the permit application.

Apply for your building permit. In addition to the required application documents, be sure to include: 

  • A COD Plans Building Permit Set from the town’s current approved Catalog;
  • A compliant site plan per the COD Program Guidelines;
  • Proof of location in an eligible location; and
  • A signed License Agreement and Terms of Use document for use of the COD Building Permit Set.

See the program Flow Chart and Permit Checklist for additional help. Make sure to review the specific building permit process and application for your town:

Step 7: Obtain approval and begin construction

After submitting your application and paying fees, the town will review it and schedule any required utility inspections, which usually take 2–3 business days. Most applicants receive construction approval within 1–2 weeks, assuming no technical issues arise.

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