Rent control rules in Newton, MA — also known as rent stabilization or rent cap ordinances — limit annual rent increases and protect tenants from displacement.
Rent control is prohibited statewide in Massachusetts under MGL Chapter 40P (the 1994 Rent Control Prohibition Act). Newton cannot impose rent caps, though inclusionary zoning and affordability programs exist.
Rent control is statutorily prohibited throughout Massachusetts under MGL Chapter 40P, the Massachusetts Rent Control Prohibition Act passed by ballot question in 1994. Newton has no authority to cap rents, regulate rent increases, or restrict evictions for rent non-payment beyond state landlord-tenant law under MGL Chapter 186. Newton does operate affordable housing programs including inclusionary zoning requiring 15% affordable units in developments of 7+ units, the Newton Housing Authority managing public and Section 8 housing, and Community Preservation Act funds for affordable housing production. Tenants facing unreasonable rent increases can seek relocation assistance through Newton HHS but cannot compel landlords to reduce rent. Legislative efforts to restore local rent control options have been debated but not enacted.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Newton, MA
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Newton, MA
Newton follows the state stretch energy code requiring EV-ready wiring in new construction. Residential Level 2 chargers need electrical permits; commercial ...
Newton, MA
Under MGL c.90 s.22D, Newton can tow vehicles left on public ways for more than 72 hours. Unregistered or inoperable vehicles on private property must be sto...
Newton, MA
Newton requires curb cut permits from DPW for new driveways, with maximum widths of 20 feet for single-family homes. Impervious surface coverage is limited b...
Newton, MA
Massachusetts MGL Chapter 49 governs boundary fences between neighbors, establishing shared maintenance where fences are mutual and providing fence viewer pr...
Newton, MA
Retaining walls in Newton over 4 feet in height measured from footing to top require a building permit and engineered design per 780 CMR.
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Middlesex County.
See how other cities in Middlesex County handle rent control.
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