Structure Height Limits: Burlington vs Somerville
How do structure height limits rules compare between Burlington, MA and Somerville, MA?
Burlington and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Burlington, MA
Middlesex County
Height limits vary by municipality under MGL c.40A. Residential caps generally run 30-35 feet or 2.5 stories; mixed-use corridors allow 45-85 feet.
View full Burlington rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville height limits run from 2.5 stories in NR districts to 6+ stories in MR and transit-oriented areas around Union Square and Assembly.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burlington | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Residential cap typical | 30-35 feet | - |
| Stories typical | 2.5 stories | - |
| MBTA 40A s.3A | Multifamily near transit | - |
| Hanscom Field | FAA Part 77 zoning | - |
| Measurement | Grade to mean roof | - |
| NR max | - | 2.5 stories approx 35 ft |
| MR and corridor | - | 4 to 6 stories |
| Assembly and Union | - | 7 to 20+ stories overlay |
| Accessory | - | About 15 ft |
| Solar on roof | - | Excluded up to limits |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burlington FAQ
Is there a county-wide height cap?
No. Height is regulated by each municipality through its zoning bylaw.
Do chimneys count toward height?
Most bylaws exempt chimneys, antennas, and small mechanical projections within limits.
Somerville FAQ
Can I add a third floor to my two-family?
In NR districts, 2.5 stories is the limit so a full third floor usually requires zoning relief. A habitable half-story under a pitched roof within the envelope may be allowed by right.
Are rooftop decks counted toward height?
Open rooftop decks with railings up to 42 inches are generally excluded, but enclosed penthouses, stair bulkheads over limits, and pergolas may count. Check with Planning.
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