Two Cambridge policemen and six resident students will bar trick-or-treaters from Peabody Terrace tonight.

Carlo V. Mantini, the building superintendent, banned trick-or-treating because there was "no way of controlling what kids in costume will be in the building"--whether children of Harvard students or of neighborhood residents.

In a posted notice, Mantini asked parents for "help in controlling your own children and keeping all entrance doors closed and locked." He also cautioned residents to "refrain from answering your buzzer unless you are expecting visitors."

Mantini said yesterday that vandalism in the buildings, especially damage to windows, rugs, and walls, had caused his order. He said he knew "positively" that the vandals were "neighborhood kids."

Several residents of Peabody Terrace expressed regret about the ban. "I don't like it but I think it's possibly necessary," said one. But another complained that "kids from the neighborhood are running in and out all day."