Cambridge allows up to 6 backyard hens with a permit from the Inspectional Services Department; roosters, slaughter, and other livestock are prohibited citywide.
Cambridge permits backyard chickens under its Urban Agriculture Zoning Amendment and Chapter 6.04 of the Municipal Code. Residents may keep up to 6 female hens with a permit from Inspectional Services; roosters are banned due to noise. Coops must be at least 10 feet from any property line and 25 feet from any dwelling other than the keeper own. Coops must be predator-proof, enclosed, and sanitary. Slaughter of any animal, including chickens, is prohibited within city limits. Other livestock (goats, pigs, cows, horses) are not allowed in residential zones. Cambridge does allow limited community agriculture and beekeeping. Violations of the poultry ordinance can result in permit revocation and fines. The urban density of Cambridge and its small lots make compliance with setbacks the most common hurdle for applicants.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Cambridge, MA
Cambridge enforces numerical decibel limits: 60 dBA day and 50 dBA night at residential receptors, with a 5 dBA penalty for tonal or impulsive sounds.
Cambridge, MA
Cambridge treats persistent barking as a noise violation under Chapter 8.16 and an animal nuisance under Chapter 6.04; owners of chronically barking dogs fac...
Cambridge, MA
Cambridge banned gas-powered leaf blowers in 2024, requiring all landscapers and residents to switch to electric models, with time and decibel restrictions r...
Cambridge, MA
Outdoor music events in Cambridge require a one-day entertainment license from the License Commission, with end times typically capped at 10 PM on weeknights...
Cambridge, MA
Cambridge enforces strict industrial and commercial noise limits: 60 dB days and 50 dB nights at residential property lines, aligned with MassDEP Policy 90-001.
Cambridge, MA
Cambridge reserves designated EV charging station spaces for actively charging electric vehicles only, and new large developments must provide EV-ready parki...
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