Shed Rules: Boston vs Chelsea
How do shed rules rules compare between Boston, MA and Chelsea, MA?
Boston and Chelsea have similar restriction levels.
Boston, MA
Suffolk County
Boston regulates sheds through zoning dimensional requirements in Article 13. Small sheds under 120 square feet may not require a building permit but must meet setback requirements.
View full Boston rules →Chelsea, MA
Suffolk County
Accessory structures including sheds in Chelsea are governed by the Zoning Ordinance (Ch. 34) and 780 CMR (state building code). Permits required for structures over 120–200 sq ft or any structure with electrical/plumbing. Setback requirements vary by zoning district.
View full Chelsea rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boston | Chelsea |
|---|---|---|
| No Permit Under | 120 sq ft (state code) | - |
| Setbacks | Must meet zoning district | Per Ch. 34 zoning district requirements |
| Historic Areas | Landmarks review | - |
| Dwelling Use | Prohibited without ADU | - |
| Permit Threshold | - | Typically required >120–200 sq ft |
| Building Code | - | 780 CMR (10th edition, 2024) |
| Authority | - | Chelsea ISD: 617-466-4132 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boston FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in Boston?
Boston regulates sheds through zoning dimensional requirements in Article 13. Small sheds under 120 square feet may not require a building permit but must meet setback requirements.
How big can a shed be without a permit in Boston?
No Permit Under: 120 sq ft (state code). Setbacks: Must meet zoning district. Historic Areas: Landmarks review. Dwelling Use: Prohibited without ADU.
Chelsea FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed in Chelsea?
Accessory structures including sheds in Chelsea are governed by the Zoning Ordinance (Ch. 34) and 780 CMR (state building code). Permits required for structures over 120–200 sq ft or any structure with electrical/plumbing. Setback requirements vary by zoning district.
How big can a shed be without a permit in Chelsea?
Permit Threshold: Typically required >120–200 sq ft. Setbacks: Per Ch. 34 zoning district requirements. Building Code: 780 CMR (10th edition, 2024). Authority: Chelsea ISD: 617-466-4132.
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