Holiday lights and decorations on private property in Cambridge do not require a permit. Displays must not obstruct sidewalks, flash to distract drivers, or create glare onto neighbors.
Cambridge permits residential holiday lights, inflatables, and other decorations on private property without a permit. Displays must not extend into the public sidewalk, right-of-way, or tree-belt and must not block pedestrian travel or accessibility. Under the city outdoor lighting and nuisance rules, decorative lights cannot flash, strobe, or be aimed in a way that causes glare onto adjoining residential windows or that could distract drivers at intersections. Electrical connections using outdoor-rated extension cords must be maintained to code, and large mechanical or animated displays that draw crowds or create parking or traffic issues may be addressed as a nuisance. Decorations should be removed within a reasonable time after the holiday, generally 30 to 60 days.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Cambridge, MA
Cambridge enforces numerical decibel limits: 60 dBA day and 50 dBA night at residential receptors, with a 5 dBA penalty for tonal or impulsive sounds.
Cambridge, MA
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Cambridge, MA
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Cambridge, MA
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Cambridge, MA
Cambridge enforces strict industrial and commercial noise limits: 60 dB days and 50 dB nights at residential property lines, aligned with MassDEP Policy 90-001.
Cambridge, MA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Middlesex County.
See how other cities in Middlesex County handle holiday displays.
See how Cambridge's holiday displays rules stack up against other locations.
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