Peabody, Mass., Code of Ordinances ch. 18, art. II (2026) § 18-56
Conference of jurisdiction
Operative Text
(a) The District Court of the City shall have original jurisdiction, concurrently with the Superior Court, of all petitions for review brought pursuant to M.G.L.A. c. 30A, § 14. (b) The Superior Court shall have jurisdiction to enforce the provisions of Chapter 131 of the Acts of 1976 and this article, and may restrain by injunction violations thereof.
Section 18-56 of Peabody Code of Ordinances ch. 18, art. II establishes which courts have authority over disputes and enforcement actions arising under the city's rent regulation framework. The District Court and Superior Court share concurrent jurisdiction over petitions for judicial review, while the Superior Court holds exclusive authority to enforce the underlying ordinance and may issue injunctions to stop violations. This division of judicial power determines where legal proceedings related to the rent article may be initiated or heard.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 18-56, property owners and managers should be aware that enforcement actions—including injunctive relief—can be brought against them in Superior Court if they are found to be violating the provisions of this article or Chapter 131 of the Acts of 1976. Compliant operators generally maintain thorough records of their rental practices so they are prepared to respond to any court proceedings in either the District Court or Superior Court. Understanding the court structure outlined in this section helps operators anticipate the legal venues through which disputes may be resolved.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 18-56 establishes that tenants or other parties seeking judicial review of decisions made under this article may file petitions in either the District Court or the Superior Court, as both share concurrent jurisdiction under M.G.L.A. c. 30A, § 14. The Superior Court also has the power to enforce the ordinance and can issue injunctions against violations, which may be a relevant avenue when seeking to stop ongoing noncompliance. Tenants navigating these options may benefit from consulting a tenant-rights organization or legal aid provider familiar with Peabody's rent regulations.
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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