Beekeeping: Cambridge vs Somerville
How do beekeeping rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Somerville, MA?
Cambridge and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge permits urban beekeeping with MDAR registration under MGL c.128 s.31A; hives must meet 10-foot setbacks and include a water source and flyway barrier.
View full Cambridge rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Beekeeping is allowed in Somerville with Board of Health permitting and mandatory state registration under MGL Chapter 128 Section 31A, with hive setbacks and flyway barriers required.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| State Registration | MDAR annual (MGL c.128 s.31A) | - |
| Setback | 10 feet from property line | - |
| Flyway Barrier | 6 feet, if facing neighbor | - |
| Water | On-site source required | - |
| Hive Limit | 2 (small lot) to 4 (large) | - |
| State registration | - | MGL c.128 s.31A (MDAR) |
| Local permit | - | Board of Health |
| Hive setback | - | 10 ft lot line |
| Flyway barrier | - | 6 ft if under 25 ft to homes |
| Water source | - | Required on property |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Do I need a Cambridge permit for beekeeping?
No separate city permit, but MDAR registration is mandatory and you must meet zoning setback and flyway rules.
What if my neighbor is allergic to bees?
Allergy is not automatic grounds to ban hives. Good practice is to notify neighbors and maintain flyway barriers and water sources.
Somerville FAQ
How many hives can I keep?
Somerville does not set a hard statewide cap, but the Board of Health reviews proposed hive counts against lot size and neighbor proximity.
Do I need neighbor approval?
Neighbor notice is typically part of the permit process; the Board of Health weighs concerns before issuing or renewing.
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