Brush Clearance: Cambridge vs Somerville
How do brush clearance rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Somerville, MA?
Cambridge and Somerville 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 →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville does not have wildfire-style defensible space requirements. Property maintenance rules require keeping lots free of overgrowth, debris, and nuisance vegetation that could feed fire.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Wildfire zone | - | Not applicable (urban) |
| State rule | - | 105 CMR 410 Sanitary Code |
| Enforcement | - | Inspectional Services Division |
| Abatement | - | City cleanup lien if ignored |
| Contact | - | 311 or (617) 625-6600 |
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.
Somerville FAQ
Do I need defensible space in Somerville?
No. Somerville is urban and has no wildfire clearance rules, but nuisance vegetation must be abated.
Who enforces overgrowth?
Somerville Inspectional Services Division handles property maintenance complaints via 311.
Compare other topics
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