Occupancy Limits: Lowell vs Waltham
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Lowell, MA and Waltham, MA?
Waltham has fewer restrictions than Lowell.
Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Lowell STR occupancy is governed by the Massachusetts State Sanitary Code 105 CMR 410 which sets minimum square footage per occupant, combined with local fire code egress requirements.
View full Lowell 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 | Lowell | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Per occupant minimum | 150 sqft first, 100 sqft each add'l | - |
| Sleeping room minimum | 70 sqft for 1, +50 per add'l | - |
| Egress | Two means or rescue window | Required per bedroom |
| Enforcement | Lowell Inspectional Services | Health Dept and ISD |
| Standard | - | 2 per bedroom plus 2 |
| State Code | - | 105 CMR 410 |
| Basement Sleeping | - | Prohibited without egress |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lowell FAQ
How many guests can stay in my Lowell STR?
Calculate based on 105 CMR 410 square footage minimums and approved sleeping rooms.
Can I use a basement bedroom for STR guests?
Only if it meets egress, ceiling height, and light/ventilation standards under 105 CMR 410.
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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