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πŸ“ Building Setbacks & Zoning/Structure Height Limits

Structure Height Limits: Arlington vs Burlington

How do structure height limits rules compare between Arlington, MA and Burlington, MA?

Arlington and Burlington have similar restriction levels.

Arlington, MA

Middlesex County

Some Restrictions

Height limits vary by municipality under MGL c.40A. Residential caps generally run 30-35 feet or 2.5 stories; mixed-use corridors allow 45-85 feet.

View full Arlington rules β†’

Burlington, MA

Middlesex County

Some Restrictions

Height limits vary by municipality under MGL c.40A. Residential caps generally run 30-35 feet or 2.5 stories; mixed-use corridors allow 45-85 feet.

View full Burlington rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactArlingtonBurlington
Residential cap typical30-35 feet30-35 feet
Stories typical2.5 stories2.5 stories
MBTA 40A s.3AMultifamily near transitMultifamily near transit
Hanscom FieldFAA Part 77 zoningFAA Part 77 zoning
MeasurementGrade to mean roofGrade to mean roof

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Arlington FAQ

Is there a county-wide height cap?

No. Height is regulated by each municipality through its zoning bylaw.

Do chimneys count toward height?

Most bylaws exempt chimneys, antennas, and small mechanical projections within limits.

Burlington FAQ

Is there a county-wide height cap?

No. Height is regulated by each municipality through its zoning bylaw.

Do chimneys count toward height?

Most bylaws exempt chimneys, antennas, and small mechanical projections within limits.

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