Boston enforces property maintenance standards through ISD and the code enforcement division. The state sanitary code (105 CMR 410) sets minimum habitability standards. Boston's code requires property owners to maintain buildings, yards, and sidewalks in safe, clean condition. Blighted and vacant properties face heightened enforcement and potential receivership.
Boston's property maintenance enforcement operates under the state sanitary code (105 CMR 410), the state building code, and the city's municipal ordinances. Property owners must maintain all exterior surfaces, roofs, windows, and structural elements in good repair. Yards must be kept free of rubbish, debris, and overgrown vegetation exceeding 12 inches. Graffiti must be removed within a reasonable time after notice. Vacant and abandoned properties must be secured and maintained under the city's vacant building registration program. ISD conducts inspections in response to 311 complaints and can issue violation notices requiring correction within specified timeframes. The city uses the Housing Court and its receivership program to address chronically blighted properties where owners fail to maintain them. The Boston Inspectional Services Department works with neighborhood services to identify and address blight. Commercial properties must maintain storefronts and signage in good condition.
Property maintenance violations carry fines starting at $300 per day for residential properties and higher for commercial. Failure to comply with violation notices can result in Housing Court action. The city may pursue receivership for properties where owners persistently fail to maintain them. Emergency hazards may be abated by the city at the owner's expense.
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 property blight rules stack up against other locations.
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