Structure Height Limits: Arlington vs Newton
How do structure height limits rules compare between Arlington, MA and Newton, MA?
Arlington has fewer restrictions than Newton.
Arlington, MA
Middlesex County
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 →Newton, MA
Middlesex County
Newton caps residential building height at 36 feet or 2.5 stories in most single-residence districts. Multi-family and village centers allow up to 48 feet with design review.
View full Newton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Newton |
|---|---|---|
| Residential cap typical | 30-35 feet | - |
| Stories typical | 2.5 stories | - |
| MBTA 40A s.3A | Multifamily near transit | - |
| Hanscom Field | FAA Part 77 zoning | - |
| Measurement | Grade to mean roof | - |
| Single Residence Cap | - | 36 ft / 2.5 stories |
| Multi-Residence Cap | - | 42 ft / 3 stories |
| Village Center | - | 48 ft with permit |
| Accessory Cap | - | 15 feet |
| Mechanical Bonus | - | 10 feet |
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.
Newton FAQ
How is building height measured in Newton?
Height is measured from natural grade to the mid-point of a sloped roof or the top of a flat roof. Chimneys and rooftop mechanical equipment can exceed the cap by 10 feet.
Can I build a 3-story home?
Only in MR1, MR2, or village center districts. Single Residence districts cap residential height at 2.5 stories or 36 feet.
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