Boston cannot set its own minimum wage; Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 151 §1 establishes a uniform $15 statewide hourly minimum wage with no carve-out allowing local increases above the state floor.
Under MGL Ch. 151 §1 as amended by the 2018 Grand Bargain (Ch. 121 of the Acts of 2018), the Massachusetts minimum wage rose in steps to $15.00 per hour effective January 1, 2023. Tipped workers receive a $6.75 service rate, which together with tips must reach $15.00. Massachusetts is a state-preemption jurisdiction for wages, meaning Boston cannot lawfully impose a higher minimum wage on private employers absent a Home Rule petition approved by the legislature. Boston's only mechanism to require above-state wages is the Living Wage Ordinance applied to city contractors and aid recipients.
Employers paying below $15 face triple damages, attorneys' fees, civil penalties, and Attorney General enforcement under MGL Ch. 149 §150, with personal liability for owners and officers.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Boston, MA
Boston has no general ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, statues, or yard decorations on private residential property. Decorations must stay within proper...
Boston, MA
Boston has no specific ordinance regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must not encroach on sidewalks, block pu...
Boston, MA
Boston does not have a dedicated ordinance regulating holiday lighting on private residential property. General nuisance, electrical safety, and historic dis...
Boston, MA
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Boston require Inspectional Services Department permits when they include gas, plumbing, electrical, or structural work. Built-...
Boston, MA
Boston treats smokers and solid-fuel grills (wood, pellet, charcoal) the same as charcoal grills under Massachusetts Fire Code 527 CMR 1.00. Use on balconies...
Boston, MA
Boston's Fire Prevention Code (527 CMR 1.00, Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code) prohibits the use or storage of LP-gas grills and propane cylinder...
See how Boston's minimum wage preemption rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.