Height Limits: Cambridge vs Waltham
How do height limits rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Waltham, MA?
Cambridge and Waltham have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge limits residential fences to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 4 feet in front yards; taller fences require a special permit from Inspectional Services.
View full Cambridge rules →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Waltham zoning sets fence height limits at 6 feet in rear and side yards, and 4 feet in front yards, applied citywide with some exceptions.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Rear/Side Yard | 6 feet max | - |
| Front Yard | 4 feet max | - |
| Corner Sight Triangle | 3 feet within 25 ft of corner | - |
| Over Limit | BZA special permit | - |
| Code Reference | Zoning Article 5.000 | - |
| Front Yard Max | - | 4 feet |
| Side/Rear Max | - | 6 feet |
| Permit Threshold | - | Over 6 feet |
| Commercial Max | - | Up to 8 ft with permit |
| Corner Lots | - | Sight triangle limits |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Can I build an 8-foot privacy fence in my Cambridge backyard?
Not by right. You would need a special permit from the Board of Zoning Appeal demonstrating hardship or architectural justification.
Does a 6-foot fence need a permit in Cambridge?
Fences 6 feet or under typically need only a building permit if structural; non-structural wood fences may be exempt, confirm with Inspectional Services.
Waltham FAQ
Can I build a 7-foot privacy fence?
Not without a permit and possible Zoning Board review.
Do decorative toppers count in height?
Usually yes if solid, but lattice toppers sometimes get flexibility.
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