No-Knock Registry: Cambridge vs Somerville
How do no-knock registry rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Somerville, MA?
Cambridge has fewer restrictions than Somerville.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge allows residents to post No Soliciting or No Trespassing signs that legally bar commercial solicitors. Ignoring such signs can result in trespass enforcement under MGL c.266 s.120.
View full Cambridge rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville honors posted no solicitation notices at residences. Solicitors must not enter properties with visible signs. Violations can result in trespass charges and license revocation.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Sign type | No Soliciting, No Trespassing, or No Knock | - |
| Legal basis | MGL c.266 s.120 | - |
| Registry | None in Cambridge | - |
| Permit consequence | License Commission may revoke | - |
| Protected speech | Must still depart when asked | - |
| Sign required | - | Clearly posted |
| Applies to | - | All door-to-door visits |
| Trespass | - | MGL c.266 s.120 |
| License risk | - | Suspension or revocation |
| Phone/text | - | Federal TCPA rules |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Does a No Soliciting sign actually work?
Yes. Commercial solicitors are required to honor it, and violators can be cited for trespass.
Is there a city no-knock list?
No. Cambridge does not maintain a formal no-knock registry; the posted sign is the legal notice.
Somerville FAQ
Does a no soliciting sign stop political canvassers?
A clearly posted sign gives you a basis to refuse and report repeat entry, even by protected canvassers, as unwanted contact.
How do I report a solicitor who ignored my sign?
Record the company and time, then file a complaint with the Somerville Licensing Commission. Call police for ongoing trespass.
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