Occupancy Limits: New Bedford vs Somerset
How do occupancy limits rules compare between New Bedford, MA and Somerset, MA?
New Bedford and Somerset have similar restriction levels.
New Bedford, MA
Bristol County
New Bedford regulates short-term rentals through Chapter 9 (Comprehensive Zoning), Section 3400 of the Code of Ordinances. The local ordinance caps overnight occupancy at no more than nine guests at any one time and limits a host to renting no more than three bedrooms. Operators are also bound by the Massachusetts STR registry under MGL c.64G and the State Sanitary Code (105 CMR 410).
View full New Bedford rules →Somerset, MA
Bristol County
STR occupancy in Bristol County follows 105 CMR 410 Sanitary Code minimum square-footage rules (150 sq ft first occupant + 100 sq ft each additional). Local STR ordinances often cap at 2 per bedroom plus 2. New Bedford and Fall River enforce via complaint.
View full Somerset rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | New Bedford | Somerset |
|---|---|---|
| Local Section | Ch. 9 Sec. 3400 | - |
| Max Guests | 9 persons | - |
| Max Bedrooms Rented | 3 | - |
| Owner Occupancy | 9 months/year | - |
| State Registry | MGL c.64G + c.62C §67 | - |
| Sanitary Code | - | 105 CMR 410.400 |
| Typical Cap | - | 2 per bedroom + 2 |
| Listing | - | Must state max guests |
| Sleeping Outside | - | Prohibited |
| Tax | - | MGL ch. 64G applies |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
New Bedford FAQ
How many guests can stay in a New Bedford short-term rental?
Chapter 9, Section 3400 of the New Bedford Code of Ordinances caps overnight occupancy at no more than nine people at any one time, and limits the host to renting no more than three bedrooms in the dwelling. The operator must also live in the accommodation at least nine months of the calendar year.
Do I need to file a maintenance plan with my New Bedford STR registration?
Yes. Section 3400 requires every short-term rental operator to file a property maintenance plan that includes the floor plan, the number of permitted overnight guests, parking, garbage disposal, tenant management, and a local point of contact for complaints, in addition to registering with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue under MGL c.64G.
Somerset FAQ
Who enforces occupancy limits rules in Bristol County?
Bristol County's code enforcement division is responsible for short term-rentals ordinances. You can report violations or request information through the Bristol County government website or by calling the main municipal line.
What are typical penalties for violating occupancy limits rules?
Most Bristol County short term-rentals violations start with a written warning followed by escalating civil fines for repeat offenses. Specific dollar amounts and any criminal-misdemeanor exposure depend on the section of code; consult Bristol County's municipal code or staff for the current penalty schedule.
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