Rental Property Rules in Bristol County, MA (2026)

3 rules for unincorporated Bristol County, Massachusetts.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Bristol County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply — see the city list below.

Rent Control

Rent control is banned statewide in Massachusetts under MGL c. 40P (1994 ballot initiative). Bristol County landlords may raise rents with proper notice. Tenant protections under MGL c. 186 apply.

rental-property/rent-control

Few Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Just Cause Eviction

Bristol County landlords must follow MGL ch. 239 summary process for evictions. No-fault evictions require 30-day or rental-period notice; non-payment requires 14-day notice to quit. Self-help eviction is barred by MGL ch. 184 §18.

rental-property/just-cause-eviction

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Rental Registration

New Bedford requires rental registration and inspection every 5 years under city ordinance. Fall River requires a rental certificate. Taunton enforces state Sanitary Code inspections. Lead paint disclosure required for pre-1978 units under MGL ch. 111 §197A.

rental-property/rental-registration

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

All Bristol County ordinances

See every category we cover for Bristol County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.

Bristol County Ordinance Hub →