Cambridge, MA Code Violation Reporting: Common Violations (2026)

While each of the 54 municipalities in Middlesex County handles its own enforcement, common violation patterns emerge across the region: (1) Unpermitted construction — additions, finished basements, deck construction, and renovations without required building permits are among the most frequent building code violations. The Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR) requires permits for virtually all work beyond cosmetic changes. (2) Illegal dwelling units — converting basements, attics, or garages into apartments without proper permits, fire separation, and egress is a significant issue in high-demand housing markets like Cambridge, Somerville, and Watertown. (3) Lead paint violations — Massachusetts has strict lead paint laws (MGL Chapter 111 §190A–199B) requiring de-leading in homes where children under 6 reside. Middlesex County's older housing stock makes this a persistent issue. (4) State Sanitary Code violations (105 CMR 410) — landlord failures including inadequate heat (minimum 64°F from September 15 to June 15), pest infestations, mold, defective plumbing, and lack of smoke/CO detectors. (5) Zoning violations — illegal home businesses, insufficient parking, short-term rental violations, and accessory dwelling unit non-compliance. (6) Snow and ice removal — municipalities throughout Middlesex County require property owners to clear sidewalks within specified hours after a storm (commonly 24 hours). (7) Property maintenance — exterior deterioration, overgrown vegetation, and unsecured vacant buildings.