Occupancy Limits: Burlington vs Cambridge
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Burlington, MA and Cambridge, MA?
Cambridge has fewer restrictions than Burlington.
Burlington, MA
Middlesex County
Middlesex County STRs must comply with State Building Code 780 CMR occupancy standards and local bylaws, typically limiting occupancy to two people per bedroom plus two, with lodging-house rules for 4+ unrelated.
View full Burlington rules →Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge STRs are limited by building code occupancy based on bedrooms and square footage, and units must be the operator primary residence occupied at least 9 months per year.
View full Cambridge rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burlington | Cambridge |
|---|---|---|
| Typical formula | 2 per bedroom plus 2 | - |
| Sanitary code | 105 CMR 410 | - |
| Building code | 780 CMR | - |
| Lodging threshold | 4+ unrelated persons | - |
| Typical cap | 10 to 12 per unit | - |
| Occupancy Standard | - | 2 per bedroom plus 2 |
| Primary Residence | - | 9 months minimum |
| Building Code | - | 780 CMR applies |
| Listing Disclosure | - | Maximum occupancy required |
| Enforcement | - | ISD |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burlington FAQ
How many guests can stay in a Middlesex County STR?
Most towns use a formula of 2 per bedroom plus 2, capped at 10 to 12 total. Sanitary code requires 70 sq ft for the first occupant and 50 sq ft per additional.
What triggers lodging house rules?
Renting to four or more unrelated persons under MGL c.140 s.22 may require a lodging house license, which has far more stringent safety and zoning requirements than a standard STR.
Cambridge FAQ
How many guests can I host?
Typically 2 per bedroom plus 2 additional, subject to building code minimum square footage.
What counts as primary residence?
The operator must occupy the dwelling as their primary residence at least 9 months per year.
Compare other topics
See how Burlington and Cambridge compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool