September 1 is the day about 70% of Boston’s leases turn over, by the City of Boston’s own estimate. Allston, Brighton, Fenway and Mission Hill see the heaviest traffic, and the City published its 2026 move-in plan on August 28. Three things to do this week if you are moving in.
The security deposit paperwork
If you paid a security deposit, Massachusetts General Laws chapter 186, section 15B requires the landlord to give you a statement of condition within 10 days after the tenancy begins. You have 15 days to add any damage they missed and return it. This single form is what your deposit refund is measured against next year, so photograph every room and both meters before the first box comes in.
The moving truck permit
A one-day City of Boston permit reserves two non-metered parking spaces from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. for $69, signs included. Metered spaces cost an additional $40. Online applications are accepted 15 days to 8 weeks before the move, and in-person applications at least 3 days before. For a September 1 move, both windows have closed; for a mid-September move, apply online now.
The City’s 2026 move-in rules
- After-hours permits are suspended August 28 through September 1 in Allston-Brighton, Fenway, Mission Hill and designated areas of Roxbury.
- Mattresses and box springs are no longer collected curbside and need a 311 pickup appointment (buildings with seven or more units go through their property manager). Household furniture can be left curbside on the scheduled pickup day, never blocking the sidewalk, and TVs, air conditioners and refrigerators need a special pickup through 311. The City’s stated reason is preventing rodents.
What I’d do first
The truck is the visible problem. The deposit paperwork is where first-year tenants in Boston actually keep or lose money, and ten minutes of photos on day one settles it. Diana Kim, REALTOR®, eXp Realty.
Questions
Common questions
When does the landlord have to give me the statement of condition in Massachusetts?
Within 10 days after the tenancy begins, or when the security deposit is received, whichever is later (M.G.L. c.186 §15B). You then have 15 days to return it with any additions.
How much is a Boston moving truck permit?
$69 for two non-metered spaces for one day, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Metered spaces add $40. Apply online 15 days to 8 weeks ahead, or in person at least 3 days ahead.
What is Allston Christmas?
The nickname for the September 1 turnover in Allston and Brighton, when discarded furniture piles up on sidewalks. The City asks residents to schedule pickups through 311 instead.
Sources
- Apartment List: about 70% of Boston leases turn over Sept 1 (City of Boston estimate)
- City of Boston moving truck permit: $69, two non-metered spaces, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., signs included
- Online permit window: at least 15 days and no more than 8 weeks before the move; in person at least 3 days before
- M.G.L. c.186 §15B: statement of condition within 10 days of tenancy if a security deposit is taken; tenant returns it within 15 days
- City of Boston press release, Aug 28 2026: 311, mattress pickup, proper disposal of waste and furniture to prevent rodents, after-hours permit pause Aug 28 through Sept 1 in Allston-Brighton, Fenway, Mission Hill, designated areas of Roxbury
Written by Diana Yeji Kim — REALTOR® at eXp Realty, serving Greater Boston in English, Korean, and Japanese.
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