Brush Clearance: Cambridge vs Newton
How do brush clearance rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Newton, MA?
Cambridge and Newton have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge has no wildfire defensible-space rules but requires owners to keep lots free of overgrown brush and combustible debris under the property maintenance ordinance and MA Fire Code.
View full Cambridge rules →Newton, MA
Middlesex County
Newton requires property owners to maintain defensible space around structures and remove dead brush under state fire code 527 CMR 1.00 and local property maintenance rules.
View full Newton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Newton |
|---|---|---|
| Wildfire zone designation | None in Cambridge | - |
| Applicable code | Cambridge property maintenance ordinance | - |
| Fire Code reference | 527 CMR 1.00 | - |
| Reporting channel | Cambridge iReport/311 | - |
| Non-compliance remedy | Cleanup lien possible | - |
| State Code | - | 527 CMR 1.00 |
| Local Rule | - | Property maintenance code |
| Focus | - | Dead vegetation and debris |
| Gutters | - | Keep clear of leaves |
| Enforcement | - | Newton Fire Department |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Does Cambridge require defensible space around homes?
No. Cambridge is not in a wildfire-prone region, so California-style defensible space rules do not apply.
Who do I call about a neighbors overgrown lot?
Use Cambridge iReport/311 or call 617-349-4000 to file a property maintenance complaint with Inspectional Services.
Newton FAQ
Does Newton have specific defensible space requirements like California?
No. Newton is not in a designated wildfire zone, but general fire safety code requires clearing dead brush, debris, and combustible material from around structures.
Who do I call about a neighbor hazardous brush pile?
Call Newton 311 at 617-796-1000 or contact the Newton Fire Department non-emergency line to report fire hazards.
Compare other topics
See how Cambridge and Newton 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