Just cause eviction rules in Brookline, MA — sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances — list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.
Norfolk County has no county-level eviction rules. Massachusetts is a strong tenant-protection state under MGL c. 239 and c. 186. Brookline adopted a local Just Cause Eviction bylaw in 2023 covering buildings with 4+ units.
Massachusetts statewide eviction procedures are set by MGL c. 239 (summary process) and MGL c. 186 (tenancy). Landlords must serve a Notice to Quit — 14 days for non-payment of rent (MGL c. 186 §11/§12), 30 days or one rental period for tenancies at will. Evictions must be filed in Housing Court (Eastern Division covers Norfolk County in Dedham and Brookline courts). Self-help eviction is criminal under MGL c. 184 §18 — up to $10,000 damages. Brookline Town Meeting approved Article 10 (May 2023) establishing just cause eviction protections for rental buildings with 4+ units and rent escrow for relocation assistance; the bylaw is subject to state home rule petition approval. Quincy and Weymouth follow state eviction law without local just-cause overlays. Retaliation presumed if eviction follows code complaint within 6 months (MGL c. 239 §2A).
Self-help eviction (lockout, utility shutoff): criminal charge, 3x damages minimum $3,000, attorney fees (MGL c. 184 §18, c. 186 §14). Improper Notice to Quit: dismissal. Retaliatory eviction: tenant defense with damages.
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