Permit Requirements: Cambridge vs Wakefield
How do permit requirements rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Wakefield, MA?
Cambridge and Wakefield 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 →Wakefield, MA
Middlesex County
Middlesex County must comply with MA STR law (MGL c.64G). State registry mandatory. Hosts must carry $1M liability insurance. Municipal licensing may apply.
View full Wakefield rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Wakefield |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinance Year | 2018 | - |
| Owner-Occupied | Required | - |
| Investor Rentals | Prohibited | - |
| State Registration | MGL c.64G required | - |
| Renewal | Annual | - |
| State Registry | - | Mandatory (MA DOR) |
| Insurance | - | $1M liability required |
| Local License | - | Check Middlesex County requirements |
| State Law | - | MGL c.64G |
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.
Wakefield FAQ
Do I need to register?
Yes. MA requires mandatory state STR registration through DOR plus any Middlesex County local licensing requirements.
Do I need insurance?
Yes. MA law requires STR hosts to carry $1 million in liability insurance.
Compare other topics
See how Cambridge and Wakefield compare on other ordinance categories.
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