Permit Requirements: Cambridge vs Somerville
How do permit requirements rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Somerville, MA?
Cambridge and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
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 →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville requires all short-term rentals (rentals under 32 days) to register with the city, comply with owner-occupancy requirements, and pay combined 11.7% state and local room occupancy taxes under MGL c.64G.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinance Year | 2018 | - |
| Owner-Occupied | Required | - |
| Investor Rentals | Prohibited | - |
| State Registration | MGL c.64G required | - |
| Renewal | Annual | - |
| Registration | - | Annual city registration required |
| Owner-Occupancy | - | Primary residence generally required |
| State Tax | - | 5.7% MGL c.64G |
| Local Tax | - | 6% Somerville local option |
| Contact | - | Somerville 311 or (617) 625-6600 |
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.
Somerville FAQ
Can I run a Somerville Airbnb in a property I do not live in?
Generally no. Somerville restricts STRs to owner-occupied homes. Investor-owned STRs face significant limits or outright prohibition depending on zone.
How much tax do I owe on Somerville STR income?
A combined 11.7% room occupancy tax applies (5.7% state plus 6% local). Platforms may collect the state portion, but you remain responsible for registration and any gaps.
Compare other topics
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