Brookline, Mass., Code of Bylaws ch 8 3 § 8.3.5
Access (Brookline Dwelling Houses Used in Common)
Operative Text
Two separate and independent ways of entrance and egress shall be provided for each story in such dwelling houses, and such ways of entrance and egress shall be kept in good repair and unobstructed.
Section 8.3.5 of Brookline's Code of Bylaws requires that every story of a covered dwelling house have two separate and independent means of entry and exit. These pathways must be maintained in good condition and kept clear of obstructions at all times. The rule is designed to ensure that occupants can safely enter and leave each floor of a dwelling through more than one route.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under CH. 8.3 § 8.3.5, compliant property operators generally ensure that each floor of a dwelling house is served by two distinct, independent access routes — such as a primary stairway and a secondary exit — and that neither route is blocked or falls into disrepair. Routine inspections of hallways, stairwells, and exit pathways help confirm that both means of egress remain clear and structurally sound. Maintenance records documenting the condition of these access routes can support a showing of ongoing compliance.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 8.3.5 entitles occupants of each story in a dwelling house to two separate, functional, and unobstructed ways in and out of their floor. If a hallway, stairwell, or other required access route is blocked or in poor repair, tenants may have grounds to raise a violation with local housing or building inspection authorities in Brookline. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with Brookline's bylaws can help residents understand what options are generally available when access requirements are not being met.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 11, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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