Brush Clearance: Cambridge vs Waltham
How do brush clearance rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Waltham, MA?
Cambridge and Waltham 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 →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Waltham property owners must maintain vegetation to prevent fire hazards under the city property maintenance code. The Fire Department can order removal of dead brush near structures or abutting properties.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Authority | - | Waltham Fire Department under 527 CMR 1.00 |
| Focus areas | - | Properties near Beaver Brook and Prospect Hill Park |
| Recommended clearance | - | 10-30 feet around structures |
| Enforcement | - | Abatement orders with daily fines |
| Contact | - | Waltham Fire 781-314-3600 |
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.
Waltham FAQ
Does Waltham require defensible space clearing?
Not as strictly as western states, but the Fire Department can order removal of hazardous dead vegetation near structures.
What about trees near power lines?
Contact Eversource directly. The utility handles line clearance; the city handles ground-level brush hazards.
Compare other topics
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