Just cause eviction rules in Boston, MA — sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances — list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.
Massachusetts does not have a statewide just cause eviction law, and Boston does not have a local just cause ordinance. Landlords may decline to renew tenancies with proper notice. However, evictions require court proceedings, and tenants have procedural protections under MGL c.239 (summary process). Retaliatory and discriminatory evictions are prohibited.
Boston does not have a just cause eviction ordinance requiring landlords to demonstrate a specific reason for non-renewal of a tenancy. Massachusetts landlord-tenant law (MGL c.186) requires proper notice to terminate tenancies — 30 days or one full rental period for month-to-month tenancies, whichever is longer. All evictions must proceed through the court summary process (MGL c.239), and landlords cannot engage in self-help evictions such as changing locks or shutting off utilities. Tenants have the right to contest evictions in Housing Court. Massachusetts prohibits retaliatory evictions (MGL c.186 §18) — landlords cannot evict tenants in retaliation for exercising legal rights such as reporting code violations or organizing tenant associations. Fair housing laws prohibit discriminatory evictions. Tenants in subsidized housing have additional protections requiring good cause for eviction. Boston has explored just cause eviction legislation but would need state authorization or home rule petition approval to implement it.
Self-help evictions (lock changes, utility shutoffs) are illegal and carry treble damages under MGL c.186 §14. Retaliatory evictions carry penalties including costs and attorneys' fees. Eviction without proper court process is void. Landlords face contempt of court for violating eviction procedures.
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