Permit Requirements: Cambridge vs Lowell
How do permit requirements rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Lowell, MA?
Lowell has fewer restrictions than Cambridge.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge requires all short-term rentals to be owner-occupied and registered with the city under the 2018 STR ordinance, with inspections and annual renewal mandatory.
View full Cambridge rules →Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Lowell requires short-term rental operators to register with the state and comply with local zoning, with all operators also subject to Massachusetts state registration under MGL c.64G.
View full Lowell rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Lowell |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinance Year | 2018 | - |
| Owner-Occupied | Required | - |
| Investor Rentals | Prohibited | - |
| State Registration | MGL c.64G required | - |
| Renewal | Annual | - |
| State registration | - | Required via MassTaxConnect |
| Insurance minimum | - | $1,000,000 liability |
| Rental threshold | - | 31 days or less |
| Local contact | - | Lowell 311 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Can I rent out a property I do not live in?
No, Cambridge requires STRs to be owner-occupied or in an owner-occupied 2-3 family building.
Where do I register?
Register with the Cambridge Inspectional Services Department and with the MA DOR for state tax purposes.
Lowell FAQ
Do I need to register my Lowell Airbnb with the state?
Yes. All short-term rental operators must register with the Massachusetts DOR.
Does Lowell require a local STR permit?
Zoning may require a special permit depending on district and whether the property is owner-occupied.
Compare other topics
See how Cambridge and Lowell compare on other ordinance categories.
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