Home Cultivation: Boston vs Chelsea
How do home cultivation rules compare between Boston, MA and Chelsea, MA?
Chelsea has fewer restrictions than Boston.
Boston, MA
Suffolk County
Massachusetts legalized recreational cannabis in 2016 under MGL c.94G. Adults 21+ may cultivate up to 6 marijuana plants per person and 12 per household. Plants must be grown in an enclosed, locked space not visible from public areas. Boston does not impose additional municipal restrictions on home cultivation beyond state law.
View full Boston rules →Chelsea, MA
Suffolk County
Suffolk County residents (Boston, Chelsea, Revere, Winthrop) may grow cannabis at home under MGL c. 94G, §7: up to 6 plants per adult and 12 plants per household with more than one adult. Plants must be in a locked area not visible from public space. Landlords in all four municipalities may prohibit cultivation in rental units under the standard lease rider permitted by statute.
View full Chelsea rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boston | Chelsea |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Limit | 6 plants per adult 21+ | - |
| Household Limit | 12 plants maximum | - |
| Security | Locked space, not visible from public | - |
| State Law | MGL c.94G §7 | - |
| Local Restrictions | None beyond state law | - |
| Legal Authority | - | MGL c. 94G, §7 |
| Plant Limit | - | 6 per adult, 12 per household |
| Visibility | - | Must be locked, not visible |
| Rental Units | - | Landlord may prohibit |
| Multi-Family | - | Boston bans smoking in common areas |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boston FAQ
How many cannabis plants can I grow in Boston?
Adults 21 and older may grow up to 6 plants per person, with a household maximum of 12 plants. Plants must be in a locked space in your primary residence and not visible from public areas, per MGL c.94G §7.
Can my Boston landlord prohibit cannabis cultivation?
Yes. Landlords may prohibit cannabis cultivation and use in lease agreements. The right to cultivate applies to your primary residence but is subject to lease terms and property owner policies.
Chelsea FAQ
Can I grow cannabis on my Boston apartment balcony?
No. Plants cannot be visible from public space. They must be in a locked indoor area. Your landlord may also prohibit cultivation entirely under state law.
Do Chelsea, Revere, or Winthrop have stricter grow limits than state law?
No. All three follow the MGL c. 94G, §7 state limits of 6 plants per adult and 12 per household.
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