Deck & Patio Permits: Arlington vs Somerville
How do deck & patio permits rules compare between Arlington, MA and Somerville, MA?
Arlington and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Arlington, MA
Middlesex County
Under the Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR), decks not exceeding 200 square feet, not more than 30 inches above grade, and not attached to a dwelling are exempt from permits. Larger or elevated decks require a building permit from the local building department. Concrete patios at grade generally do not require permits.
View full Arlington rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Under the Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR), decks not exceeding 200 square feet, not more than 30 inches above grade, and not attached to a dwelling are exempt from permits. Larger or elevated decks require a building permit from the local building department. Concrete patios at grade generally do not require permits.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Exempt | ≤200 sq ft, ≤30" above grade, detached | ≤200 sq ft, ≤30" above grade, detached |
| Guard Rail | 36" min if >30" above grade | 36" min if >30" above grade |
| Patio at Grade | No permit needed | No permit needed |
| Plan Review | 1–6 weeks by municipality | 1–6 weeks by municipality |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
Do I need a permit for a deck in Middlesex County?
Unless the deck is 200 sq ft or less, 30 inches or less above grade, not attached to the house, and doesn't serve an exit door, you need a permit. Most practical decks require permits. Contact your town's building department.
Do I need a permit for a patio in Middlesex County?
Concrete or paver patios at grade level generally do not require a building permit. Covered patios, screened porches, and any structures with roofs require permits as they are treated as additions.
Somerville FAQ
Do I need a permit for a deck in Middlesex County?
Unless the deck is 200 sq ft or less, 30 inches or less above grade, not attached to the house, and doesn't serve an exit door, you need a permit. Most practical decks require permits. Contact your town's building department.
Do I need a permit for a patio in Middlesex County?
Concrete or paver patios at grade level generally do not require a building permit. Covered patios, screened porches, and any structures with roofs require permits as they are treated as additions.
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