Boston, MA Building Safety: Door Locking Hardware (2026)

4(C) requires that when a building is vacant, unguarded and open to unauthorized entry, all building openings must be closed, secured and protected in a manner not inconsistent with Inspectional Services Department rules for securing vacant buildings. 4(C)(2)(a), every opening larger than one square foot that sits less than 8 feet above ground, or within 8 feet of an exterior stairway or fire escape, must be secured using materials approved by the Inspectional Services Department and the Office of the City Fire Marshal, specifically naming stainless steel plates or shutters, steel mesh grates, lexan panels and concrete blocks.

4(C)(2)(b) as having a permanent, secured door or window in each opening with all components, frames, jambs, rails, sashes, panes, intact and unbroken; a building failing that standard is "violated," and it becomes a violation of the Section for a previously-certified unviolated building to become violated. The Commissioner sends written notice by certified mail to the on-site manager, the sign-posted agent for service, or the owner of record, and the owner then has 30 days to comply. 4(B) also requires a posted sign giving 24-hour contact information for the responsible manager and the owner's agent for service of process.