Somerville vs Waltham
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Somerville, MA and Waltham, MA?
Somerville and Waltham have similar restriction levels.
Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville STR occupancy follows MA Sanitary Code 105 CMR 410 room-size standards, typically allowing two guests per bedroom plus additional occupants based on square footage.
View full Somerville 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 | Somerville | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| State Code | 105 CMR 410 minimums | 105 CMR 410 |
| Rule of Thumb | 2 guests per bedroom | - |
| First Occupant | 150 sq ft living space | - |
| Each Additional | 100 sq ft | - |
| Contact | Somerville 311 or (617) 625-6600 | - |
| Standard | - | 2 per bedroom plus 2 |
| Egress | - | Required per bedroom |
| Basement Sleeping | - | Prohibited without egress |
| Enforcement | - | Health Dept and ISD |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Somerville FAQ
Can I list my 2-bedroom Somerville condo for 6 guests?
Only if the total square footage supports it under 105 CMR 410 and egress is adequate. Most 2-bedroom condos realistically support 4 guests. Inspectional Services can confirm your specific unit.
Do infants count toward occupancy?
Under 105 CMR 410, children under one year old generally do not count, but older children do. Check with ISD for your specific situation.
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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