Cambridge requires permits for scaffolding that occupies sidewalks or public ways, enforced by DPW and the Inspectional Services Department per Massachusetts 454 CMR 17 safety standards.
Cambridge scaffolding installations on public ways require a Street Occupancy Permit from the Department of Public Works, plus a building permit from Inspectional Services if the scaffold supports construction work. All scaffolds must comply with Massachusetts 454 CMR 17 (Scaffolding regulations), which mandates guardrails on platforms over 6 feet, toeboards, safe access, and load ratings. Pedestrian protection canopies are required when scaffolds extend over sidewalks, with minimum 8-foot clear headroom. Scaffolding must be inspected by a competent person daily. Sidewalk closures require advance notice, ADA-compliant detours, and lighted barricades at night.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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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