Sober Living in Massachusetts: A Complete Guide to Recovery Housing

Sober Living in Massachusetts: A Complete Guide to Recovery Housing

Sober living homes in Massachusetts play a vital role in bridging the gap between formal treatment and independent living. For many residents, the journey of recovery doesn’t end when they complete detox or residential treatment—it continues in a safe, structured, and supportive environment. That’s where sober living, also known as recovery housing, comes in.

In Massachusetts, recovery housing offers more than a place to stay—it provides a peer-based community rooted in accountability, structure, and mutual support. As the Commonwealth continues to address substance use and overdose challenges, certified sober living homes help residents sustain long-term recovery while rebuilding their lives through employment, education, and connection.

This guide explores how sober living works in Massachusetts, who oversees certification, what steps are required to open or certify a sober home, and how funding and regulations affect operators and residents alike. Whether you’re seeking a recovery residence for yourself or a loved one—or you’re a property owner or developer interested in supporting this mission—this page will help you navigate the state’s framework and resources with confidence.

How Sober Living Works in Massachusetts

Sober living homes, also called recovery residences, are peer-driven environments that support residents committed to abstinence and personal growth. These homes emphasize structure, accountability, and community rather than clinical treatment.

In Massachusetts, this type of housing is often referred to as Alcohol- and Drug-Free (ADF) housing. Homes operate under a voluntary certification framework managed by the Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS). The Massachusetts Alliance for Sober Housing (MASH)—the state’s affiliate of the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR)—is designated by BSAS as the certifying body.

MASH-certified sober homes must follow detailed standards covering resident rights, governance, safety, inspections, and operations. While sober homes provide structure and peer accountability, they are distinct from BSAS-licensed Recovery Homes, which deliver clinical care.

Why Sober Living Matters in Massachusetts

Massachusetts continues to face challenges related to substance use and overdose, making recovery housing an essential resource for many communities.

According to the Department of Public Health, approximately 2,125 residents died from opioid-related overdoses in 2023, marking a 10% decline from the previous year. While this reduction is encouraging, disparities remain—Black non-Hispanic men experienced an increase in overdose deaths, from 80.0 to 84.6 per 100,000.

Stable, certified sober living homes give individuals leaving treatment or incarceration a structured environment to maintain sobriety, secure employment, and rebuild social connections. In a state with limited affordable housing options, these residences provide a crucial bridge to independent living and long-term recovery.

Sober Living Certification in Massachusetts: MASH

MASH Certification ensures that sober living homes operate safely, ethically, and in alignment with state and national recovery housing standards.

In Massachusetts, certification is voluntary but essential for visibility and referrals. Under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 17, Section 18A, only certified ADF housing may receive referrals from state agencies or statewide vendors. The Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS) oversees this framework, while MASH administers certification and ongoing compliance.

Certification signals that a home upholds best practices for resident safety, peer governance, data tracking, and house management. It also assures referral partners and families that the home meets established standards for recovery housing.

How to Open a Sober Living Home in Massachusetts

Property & Location Criteria for Sober Living in Massachusetts

Choosing the right location is essential for success. Ideal properties are close to public transportation, employment opportunities, recovery meetings, and medical or outpatient care. Homes should offer sufficient common areas and align with neighborhood character, following MASH standards for safety and functionality.

Zoning and Fair Housing for Recovery Homes in Massachusetts

Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), individuals in recovery are recognized as persons with disabilities, granting them protection from housing discrimination. Municipalities are generally required to make reasonable accommodations in zoning and land use decisions.

A 2025 decision by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court (Bak Realty v. Fitchburg) highlighted that sober homes must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis under local zoning rules. Operators should understand local definitions of “family,” occupancy limits, and lodging requirements, as these can vary by community.

Safety, House Rules, and Daily Operations in Massachusetts Sober Homes

Sober homes in Massachusetts follow rigorous safety and operational standards. These include functioning smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers, posted emergency procedures, and regular safety drills. Homes must maintain naloxone on-site and enforce clear resident rules covering curfews, meetings, and drug or alcohol screening.

Unlike treatment programs, sober homes do not provide medical services—they focus on structure, accountability, and community.

Getting MASH Certified as a Sober House in Massachusetts

Eligibility and Prerequisites for MASH Certification

Before applying, operators must complete Sober Housing 101, a required training that covers certification standards and expectations. Applicants should align their policies and home operations with NARR Level II standards and ensure documentation, insurance, and house management policies are in place.

Application and Inspection Timeline in Massachusetts

Certification begins with an online application and supporting documentation. After review, MASH schedules an on-site inspection to verify compliance with housing and operational standards. Once approved and fees are paid, the home is listed as certified on the MASH directory.

Fees, Annual Renewal, and Ongoing Compliance

Certification costs $425 per year (effective July 1, 2024), which includes an inspection fee. Certified homes must renew annually, undergo reinspection, and notify MASH of any operational or management changes.

Funding Opportunities for Sober Living in Massachusetts

Financial Help for Massachusetts Residents and Families

Massachusetts offers limited direct funding for sober living, but specific programs can help. Project NORTH provides short-term rent assistance for eligible court-involved individuals residing in participating MASH-certified sober homes, administered in partnership with the Trial Court and BSAS.

Residents can also explore broader state rental assistance programs, such as MRVP, Section 8, and AHVP, though these options typically involve long waiting periods. The Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline offers navigation support for housing and recovery resources.

Grants and Support for Massachusetts Sober House Operators

Operators may access funding through MASH-administered grants when available. The state also participates in the HUD Recovery Housing Program (RHP), which supports local initiatives expanding access to recovery housing.

Medicaid and Insurance Notes for Sober Living in Massachusetts

Because sober homes are non-clinical environments, MassHealth does not cover the costs of sober living. Additionally, residential monitoring drug tests are not currently reimbursable under MassHealth guidelines.

State Certification Law and Referral Policy

Under M.G.L. c.17 §18A, Massachusetts formally defines Alcohol- and Drug-Free housing and establishes the state’s voluntary accreditation process. The law restricts state referrals to certified homes, reinforcing certification as a best practice for safety and accountability.

Local Zoning and Occupancy Requirements (Varies by Municipality)

Zoning and occupancy laws differ from town to town. Operators may need to address local definitions of “family” or limits on unrelated residents. The Bak Realty v. Fitchburg (2025) ruling affirmed that sober living homes are protected under anti-discrimination provisions but must still navigate local zoning case-by-case.

Building/Fire Safety Standards and Insurance Norms in Massachusetts

Sober homes must comply with all local and state building and fire codes. MASH standards require functioning alarms, emergency drills, proper bathroom ratios, and adequate living space. Homes must also maintain liability insurance suited to their level of support.

Resources and Next Steps in Massachusetts

To find or verify a certified sober living home, explore the MASH directory and Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline. Operators and developers can learn more about certification, funding opportunities, and compliance requirements through BSAS and state housing programs.

A list of MASH Certified sober houses can be found at: https://mashsoberhousing.org/certified-residences/

Interested in opening or certifying a home? Explore these related guides:

Have more questions? Contact us for personalized guidance or consultation.