Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
πŸ”§ Building Safety/Pest Control

Pest Control: Cambridge vs Lexington

How do pest control rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Lexington, MA?

Lexington has fewer restrictions than Cambridge.

Cambridge, MA

Middlesex County

Heavy Restrictions

Cambridge property owners must maintain premises free of rodents and pests under the Sanitary Code and city ordinance, with mandatory pre-demolition and construction rodent control plans.

View full Cambridge rules β†’

Lexington, MA

Middlesex County

Some Restrictions

State Sanitary Code 105 CMR 410 requires landlords to maintain pest-free dwellings. Pesticide use is licensed under MGL c.132B and 333 CMR.

View full Lexington rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactCambridgeLexington
Code105 CMR 410-
Construction IPM planRequired pre-permit-
Trash containersRodent-proof, tight lids-
EnforcementInspectional ServicesLocal BOH
ComplaintsiReport or 311-
Sanitary Code-105 CMR 410
Pesticide law-MGL c.132B
Regulations-333 CMR 10, 11
Multi-unit-Owner responsible

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Cambridge FAQ

Do I need a rodent plan for construction?

Yes, Cambridge requires an IPM rodent control plan for demolition and major construction to prevent pest migration.

Who is responsible for pest control in rentals?

Under 105 CMR 410, the property owner is generally responsible unless the tenant caused the infestation.

Lexington FAQ

Can a landlord charge for extermination?

Generally no in multi-unit buildings; 105 CMR 410 places responsibility on the owner.

Do I need a license to spray my own yard?

No for homeowner residential use of consumer products, but commercial applicators must be licensed.

Want to add a third city?

Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.

Open Comparison Tool