Shed Rules: Lexington vs Newton
How do shed rules rules compare between Lexington, MA and Newton, MA?
Lexington has fewer restrictions than Newton.
Lexington, MA
Middlesex County
There is no Middlesex County shed ordinance. Massachusetts abolished Middlesex County government in 1997 (Chapter 48 of the Acts of 1997), so no county zoning, building department, or code enforcement exists. Shed rules in the 54 cities and towns within Middlesex County (Cambridge, Lowell, Newton, Framingham, etc.) are governed by the statewide building code (780 CMR R105.2) plus each town's local zoning bylaw.
View full Lexington rules →Newton, MA
Middlesex County
Newton allows sheds in rear and side yards with setbacks; sheds over 120 sf need building permits; setbacks typically 3 to 10 feet from property lines.
View full Newton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lexington | Newton |
|---|---|---|
| County Government | Abolished 1997 (Ch. 48) | - |
| State Building Code | 780 CMR R105.2 | - |
| Permit-Exempt Threshold | 200 sq ft | - |
| Permit Authority | Local town building dept | - |
| Setbacks | Set by local zoning bylaw | - |
| No Permit Under | - | 120 square feet |
| Setback | - | 3 to 5 feet typical |
| Max Height | - | 10 to 12 feet |
| Permit Trigger | - | Over 120 sf or utilities |
| Lot Coverage | - | Subject to zoning cap |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lexington FAQ
Does Middlesex County, MA have a shed permit ordinance?
No. Middlesex County government was abolished by Chapter 48 of the Acts of 1997, so there is no county zoning office, no county building inspector, and no county-level shed rule. Sheds in Cambridge, Lowell, Framingham, Newton, and the other 50+ towns are regulated by the statewide building code (780 CMR R105.2) plus each town's local zoning bylaw.
When does my shed need a building permit in a Middlesex County town?
Under 780 CMR R105.2, item 1, a one-story detached tool or storage shed up to 200 square feet is exempt from a building permit statewide. Above 200 square feet, you need a permit from your town's building department. Even shed under 200 sq ft must still comply with your town's zoning setbacks, and many Middlesex towns require a separate zoning permit. Confirm with your local building department.
Newton FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 10x10 shed in Newton?
A 100 sf shed is under the 120 sf threshold so no building permit is required, but zoning review and setback compliance still apply.
How close to my property line can a shed be in Newton?
Typically 3 to 5 feet from side and rear lines, varying by zoning district; check with Newton Inspectional Services.
Compare other topics
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