Cambridge vs Newton
How do just cause eviction rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Newton, MA?
Cambridge and Newton have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Massachusetts prohibits rent control under MGL c.40P, but Cambridge tenants retain strong eviction protections under MGL c.186 and c.239. Landlords must follow statutory notice and court process.
View full Cambridge rules →Newton, MA
Middlesex County
Newton follows Massachusetts state law for evictions. No local just-cause ordinance exists, but MGL c.186 and c.239 govern landlord-tenant relationships and eviction procedures in Newton.
View full Newton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Newton |
|---|---|---|
| State law | MGL c.186 and c.239 govern eviction procedure | - |
| Notice for nonpayment | 14-day Notice to Quit required | - |
| No-fault notice | 30 days or one rental period | - |
| Rent control | Prohibited statewide by MGL c.40P | - |
| Tenant help | Cambridge Multi-Service Center and Housing Liaison | - |
| Local Ordinance | - | None - state law applies |
| Notice to Quit (nonpayment) | - | 14 days minimum |
| No-fault Notice | - | 30 days or rental period |
| Court | - | Eastern Housing Court |
| Self-help Eviction | - | Illegal under MGL c.184 s.18 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Does Cambridge have a just-cause eviction ordinance?
No. State law (MGL c.40P) prevents cities from adopting rent-control or just-cause eviction rules, but statutory notice requirements still apply.
Can a landlord evict without a reason?
A landlord may terminate a tenancy-at-will with 30 days notice or one rental period, whichever is longer, but cannot evict in retaliation or for discriminatory reasons.
Newton FAQ
Does Newton have rent control or just-cause eviction?
No. MGL c.40P prohibits rent control statewide, and Newton has not adopted any local just-cause eviction ordinance. State landlord-tenant law governs.
How much notice must a landlord give before eviction?
14 days for nonpayment of rent; 30 days or one full rental period for termination without cause on a tenancy-at-will.
Compare other topics
See how Cambridge and Newton compare on other ordinance categories.
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