Boston's "No More Than Four" Rule

The city of Boston implemented the "No More than Four" zoning code in 2008. This code limits the number of students sharing an apartment, single-family house, or any other dwelling unit to four residents. It defines "student" as a full-time undergraduate at a post secondary educational institution. Five or more students sharing a living space is considered violation of this rule. 

Landlord Responsibilities

Property owners are responsible for compliance with this code and any violations will be issued against them. They are also responsible for facilitating rental inspections for new tenants and must deliver clean, safe units on move-in day. Click here to learn more about Boston's rental requirements for landlords and the Massachusetts Sanitary Code.

Tenant Responsibilities 

Tenants are responsible with providing accurate information regarding their rental status and to inform the landlord if there are any changes regarding who is living in the home. Learn more about tenants rights and responsibilities at Boston.gov. 

State Sanitary Code Requirements 

The State Sanitary Code requires 150 sq. ft. of habitable space for the first occupant and 100 sq. ft. for each additional occupant. It also requires 70 sq. ft. of sleeping space for one occupant and 50 sq. ft. of sleeping space for each additional resident. 

Contact Boston Inspectional Services Department

Phone: (617) 635-5300

Website: www.boston.gov

Location:
1010 Mass Avenue
Boston, MA, 02118

Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm