Marlborough, Mass., Code of Bylaws ch 421 § 421-2
Definitions (Marlborough Lodging Houses and Boardinghouses)
Operative Text
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning: BOARDER, LODGER, BOARDINGHOUSE, LODGING HOUSE, BOARDING UNIT, LODGING UNIT Shall have the same definitions as provided in § 650-5 of the City Code; consistent therewith, where the words "lodging house" are used, they shall also mean "boardinghouse." LICENSEE That person(s) or entity listed on the lodging house license and the owners of the land and building where the lodging house is operated.
Section 421-2 of Marlborough's Code of Bylaws establishes the definitions that govern Chapter 421's lodging house regulations. Key terms such as 'boarder,' 'lodger,' 'boardinghouse,' 'lodging house,' 'boarding unit,' and 'lodging unit' carry the same meanings assigned to them in § 650-5 of the City Code, with 'lodging house' and 'boardinghouse' treated as interchangeable throughout the chapter. The term 'licensee' is defined to include both the person or entity named on the lodging house license and the owners of the land and building where the lodging house operates.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Operators of lodging or boarding houses in Marlborough should be aware that § 421-2 ties the foundational definitions of Chapter 421 directly to § 650-5 of the City Code, meaning compliance with both sections is relevant to understanding one's obligations. Importantly, the definition of 'licensee' under § 421-2 extends to property owners as well as the named license holder, so ownership of the land or building can carry regulatory responsibility even if someone else holds the license. Compliant operators generally ensure that all parties who qualify as 'licensees' under this definition are aware of and engaged with the chapter's requirements.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
For tenants residing in a boardinghouse or lodging house in Marlborough, § 421-2 clarifies that the terms 'boardinghouse' and 'lodging house' are used interchangeably throughout Chapter 421, which can be relevant when identifying which rules apply to a living arrangement. The broad definition of 'licensee' means that both the license holder and the property owner may bear responsibility under the chapter, which can be useful context when identifying who is accountable for conditions in the building. Tenants who have concerns about their lodging house may consider reaching out to the City of Marlborough's relevant municipal offices or a local tenant-rights organization for guidance on how Chapter 421 applies to their situation.
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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