Arlington, MA Code Violation Reporting: How to Report (2026)

Unlike many states, Massachusetts abolished county government functions in 1997 (except for sheriff departments), meaning there is no county-level code enforcement in Middlesex County. Code violations are handled by individual cities and towns within the county. Middlesex County contains 54 municipalities, including major cities like Cambridge, Lowell, Newton, Somerville, Framingham, Waltham, and Medford. Each municipality has its own Building Department (headed by a Building Commissioner or Inspector of Buildings), Board of Health, and potentially an Inspectional Services Department. To report a code violation, residents should contact their local municipality's building department or board of health. For building code violations (unpermitted construction, structural issues, zoning violations): contact the Building Inspector/Commissioner at your city or town hall. For health code violations (unsanitary conditions, pest infestations, mold, lead paint): contact the Board of Health or Health Department. For housing code violations (habitability issues in rental units): contact the local Board of Health, which enforces the State Sanitary Code (105 CMR 410). The Massachusetts Attorney General's office also handles certain housing complaints. Many Middlesex County municipalities offer online complaint portals through their websites or services like SeeClickFix. Emergency situations (structural collapse, gas leaks) should be reported to 911.