Address

Newton City Hall
1000 Commonwealth Ave
Newton Centre, MA 02459
617-796-1000
TDD/TTY 617-796-1089

Hours

Monday - Friday
8:30am-5:00pm
Tuesday
8:30am- 8:00pm

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FAQs – Zoning - Lodgers/Boarders

  • Who is considered a lodger under the Newton Zoning Ordinance?

A person, not a member of the housekeeping unit, who occupies space for living and sleeping purposes without separate cooking facilities and pays rent, which may include an allowance for meals.

  • Is a boarder or roomer same as a lodger?

Yes.

  • My single family home is located in a Single Residence zone (SR1-3). How many lodgers may I take in?

Up to three (3) lodgers.

  • My two-family home is located in a Multi Residence zone (MR1-4). How many lodgers may I take in?

Up to three (3) lodgers per dwelling.

  • What is considered a lodging house under the Newton Zoning Ordinance?

Any dwelling designed, occupied or intended for occupancy by four (4) or more lodgers.

  • Do I need any special permission to have a lodging house?

Yes – you must obtain a Special Permit from the Board of Aldermen, and a lodging house may only located in a Multi Residence zone (MR 1-4).

7.May I rent the room above my detached garage to a lodger?

No. A lodger must have access to kitchen and sanitary facilities.

For more information contact the City’s Chief Zoning Code Official at 617-796-1127, or the Commissioner of Inspectional Services at 617-796-1060