Vacant Lot Maintenance: Boston vs Revere
How do vacant lot maintenance rules compare between Boston, MA and Revere, MA?
Revere has fewer restrictions than Boston.
Boston, MA
Suffolk County
Boston requires owners of vacant lots to maintain them in a clean, safe, and secure condition. Lots must be free of debris, vegetation must be kept under 12 inches, and the lot must be secured against unauthorized access. The city can abate nuisances on vacant lots at the owner's expense.
View full Boston rules →Revere, MA
Suffolk County
Suffolk County municipalities require vacant lot owners to mow, remove trash, and secure their properties under local property maintenance codes. Boston Code §16-12 prohibits nuisance conditions including overgrown vegetation (typically 10+ inches). Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop have similar weed ordinances. Municipal abatement plus a lien on the lot covers non-compliance.
View full Revere rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boston | Revere |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetation Max | 12 inches during growing season | - |
| Registration | Required after 1 year vacant | - |
| Abatement | City may act and lien property | - |
| Fine | $300/day for violations | - |
| Community Use | DND disposition for gardens/housing | - |
| Grass Limit | - | 10-12 inches typical |
| Boston Code | - | §16-12 nuisances |
| Municipal Abatement | - | MGL c. 111, §127B |
| Illegal Dumping | - | Up to $5,500 |
| Fencing | - | Open excavation required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boston FAQ
Who is responsible for maintaining a vacant lot in Boston?
The property owner is responsible for keeping vacant lots clean, mowed (under 12 inches), free of debris, and secured. If the owner fails, the city may perform abatement and place a lien on the property for costs.
How do I report an overgrown vacant lot in Boston?
Contact Boston 311 by phone, app, or online. ISD will inspect the lot and issue violation notices to the owner. The city can perform emergency mowing and debris removal at the owner's expense if violations persist.
Revere FAQ
Can I be billed for city mowing of my vacant lot?
Yes. After a notice to correct, the city may mow and add the cost as a lien on your property tax bill under MGL c. 111, §127B.
Who enforces vacant lots rules in Suffolk County?
Suffolk County's code enforcement division is responsible for property maintenance ordinances. You can report violations or request information through the Suffolk County government website or by calling the main municipal line.
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