Shed Rules: Cambridge vs Lexington
How do shed rules rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Lexington, MA?
Lexington has fewer restrictions than Cambridge.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge requires a building permit for any shed over 120 sq ft and zoning compliance for smaller sheds. Setbacks of 3 to 5 feet apply, with extra review in historic districts.
View full Cambridge rules →Lexington, MA
Middlesex County
There is no Middlesex County shed ordinance. Massachusetts abolished Middlesex County government in 1997 (Chapter 48 of the Acts of 1997), so no county zoning, building department, or code enforcement exists. Shed rules in the 54 cities and towns within Middlesex County (Cambridge, Lowell, Newton, Framingham, etc.) are governed by the statewide building code (780 CMR R105.2) plus each town's local zoning bylaw.
View full Lexington rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Lexington |
|---|---|---|
| Building permit threshold | Over 120 sq ft | - |
| Typical setback | 3 to 5 feet | - |
| Max shed height | Generally 15 feet | - |
| Historic districts | Commission review required | - |
| Permits contact | 617-349-6100 | - |
| County Government | - | Abolished 1997 (Ch. 48) |
| State Building Code | - | 780 CMR R105.2 |
| Permit-Exempt Threshold | - | 200 sq ft |
| Permit Authority | - | Local town building dept |
| Setbacks | - | Set by local zoning bylaw |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 10 by 10 shed in Cambridge?
100 sq ft is under the state threshold, but you still need zoning compliance and possibly historic review.
How close to my fence can I put a shed?
Usually no closer than 3 to 5 feet, depending on your zoning district and shed size.
Lexington FAQ
Does Middlesex County, MA have a shed permit ordinance?
No. Middlesex County government was abolished by Chapter 48 of the Acts of 1997, so there is no county zoning office, no county building inspector, and no county-level shed rule. Sheds in Cambridge, Lowell, Framingham, Newton, and the other 50+ towns are regulated by the statewide building code (780 CMR R105.2) plus each town's local zoning bylaw.
When does my shed need a building permit in a Middlesex County town?
Under 780 CMR R105.2, item 1, a one-story detached tool or storage shed up to 200 square feet is exempt from a building permit statewide. Above 200 square feet, you need a permit from your town's building department. Even shed under 200 sq ft must still comply with your town's zoning setbacks, and many Middlesex towns require a separate zoning permit. Confirm with your local building department.
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