Setback Rules: Arlington vs Somerville
How do setback rules rules compare between Arlington, MA and Somerville, MA?
Arlington and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Arlington, MA
Middlesex County
Setbacks are set by each city or town zoning bylaw under MGL c.40A. Typical residential front setbacks range 15-30 feet with side yards of 10-15 feet.
View full Arlington rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville setbacks vary by zoning district under the 2019+ zoning overhaul. Most residential zones require modest front yards matching the streetwall.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | MGL c.40A Zoning Act | - |
| Typical front setback | 15-30 feet | - |
| Typical side setback | 10-15 feet | - |
| Variance body | Local ZBA | - |
| County role | None - municipal only | - |
| Zoning code | - | 2019 SZO rewrite |
| Front yard NR | - | 10 feet or context |
| Side yard | - | 5 to 10 feet typical |
| Rear yard | - | 20 feet or more |
| Nonconforming | - | Relief from ZBA required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
Does Middlesex County set setbacks?
No. Setbacks are governed entirely by city or town zoning bylaws adopted under MGL c.40A.
Can I build closer with a variance?
Yes, if the local ZBA grants dimensional relief based on hardship criteria in MGL c.40A s.10.
Somerville FAQ
My house is 3 feet from the property line. Can I add a second story above it?
Likely yes with zoning relief. Vertical expansion within an existing nonconforming footprint is commonly allowed via a Special Permit from the ZBA if it does not worsen the nonconformity.
Can I build a deck into the rear yard setback?
Small open decks may encroach per the ordinance, but larger decks count as structures and must meet the rear setback unless you obtain a variance.
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