Springfield's Rental Property Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles rental property rules a little differently. In Springfield, Massachusetts, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Rental Registration

Springfield requires anyone renting a room to a non-family member to first get a rooming-unit rental license from the Building Commissioner, renewed every year, under City Code § 235-2.

Key details: License fee: $115/year. Min. unit size: 80 sq. ft.. Occupancy: One renter per unit. First-offense fine: $100. Continuing fine: $50–$200/day.

A first violation draws a $100 fine, rising to $50 per day the violation continues within that license year, and $200 per day for any violation after that, under § 235-5D. Falsifying license information voids the license outright.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Springfield actively enforces its rental registration requirements.

Repairs & Habitability

Springfield adopts the Massachusetts State Sanitary Code, 105 CMR 410, by reference as controlling law citywide, setting the minimum standards of fitness for human habitation that every rental dwelling in the city, in Hampden County, must meet.

Key details: Adopted code: 105 CMR 410, State Sanitary Code. Enforcer: Code Enforcement Officer. Max fine: $300 per day of violation. Adopted: 2-3-2009, Ch. 140 Art. I.

Failure to comply with a Code Enforcement Officer's order is a criminal violation carrying a fine of up to $300, with each day the noncompliance continues charged as a separate offense under § 153-1.

The Bottom Line

Springfield's rental property rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Springfield is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Springfield can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.