Lowell vs Newton
How do just cause eviction rules compare between Lowell, MA and Newton, MA?
Lowell has fewer restrictions than Newton.
Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Lowell has no local just-cause eviction ordinance. Landlord-tenant evictions follow Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 239 and Chapter 186 procedures.
View full Lowell rules →Newton, MA
Middlesex County
Newton follows Massachusetts state law for evictions. No local just-cause ordinance exists, but MGL c.186 and c.239 govern landlord-tenant relationships and eviction procedures in Newton.
View full Newton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lowell | Newton |
|---|---|---|
| Local Just Cause Law | None in Lowell | - |
| Governing Statute | MGL c.239 and c.186 | - |
| Nonpayment Notice | 14 days | - |
| No-Fault Notice | 30 days or rental period | - |
| Forum | Northeast Housing Court | - |
| Local Ordinance | - | None - state law applies |
| Notice to Quit (nonpayment) | - | 14 days minimum |
| No-fault Notice | - | 30 days or rental period |
| Court | - | Eastern Housing Court |
| Self-help Eviction | - | Illegal under MGL c.184 s.18 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lowell FAQ
Can Lowell adopt just-cause eviction?
Not without state legislation. MGL c.40P preempts local rent and eviction controls.
What notice is required for nonpayment?
A 14-day notice to quit under MGL c.186 s.11 before summary process can be filed.
Newton FAQ
Does Newton have rent control or just-cause eviction?
No. MGL c.40P prohibits rent control statewide, and Newton has not adopted any local just-cause eviction ordinance. State landlord-tenant law governs.
How much notice must a landlord give before eviction?
14 days for nonpayment of rent; 30 days or one full rental period for termination without cause on a tenancy-at-will.
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