Occupancy Limits: Cambridge vs Waltham
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Waltham, MA?
Cambridge and Waltham have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge STRs are limited by building code occupancy based on bedrooms and square footage, and units must be the operator primary residence occupied at least 9 months per year.
View full Cambridge rules →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Waltham short-term rentals must follow Massachusetts building code occupancy standards, typically two persons per bedroom plus two, with no more than the certificate of occupancy allows.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Occupancy Standard | 2 per bedroom plus 2 | - |
| Primary Residence | 9 months minimum | - |
| Building Code | 780 CMR applies | - |
| Listing Disclosure | Maximum occupancy required | - |
| Enforcement | ISD | Health Dept and ISD |
| Standard | - | 2 per bedroom plus 2 |
| State Code | - | 105 CMR 410 |
| Egress | - | Required per bedroom |
| Basement Sleeping | - | Prohibited without egress |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
How many guests can I host?
Typically 2 per bedroom plus 2 additional, subject to building code minimum square footage.
What counts as primary residence?
The operator must occupy the dwelling as their primary residence at least 9 months per year.
Waltham FAQ
How many guests can stay in my 3-bedroom Waltham STR?
The standard formula allows up to 8 persons (2 per bedroom plus 2), subject to bedroom size minimums.
Can guests sleep in the basement?
Only if the room has legal egress windows and meets state sanitary code requirements for habitable rooms.
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