Height Limits: Cambridge vs Lowell
How do height limits rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Lowell, MA?
Cambridge and Lowell have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge limits residential fences to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 4 feet in front yards; taller fences require a special permit from Inspectional Services.
View full Cambridge rules →Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Residential fences in Lowell are generally limited to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 4 feet in front yards, with taller fences requiring a special permit.
View full Lowell rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Lowell |
|---|---|---|
| Rear/Side Yard | 6 feet max | - |
| Front Yard | 4 feet max | - |
| Corner Sight Triangle | 3 feet within 25 ft of corner | - |
| Over Limit | BZA special permit | - |
| Code Reference | Zoning Article 5.000 | - |
| Side and rear | - | 6 feet maximum |
| Front yard | - | 4 feet maximum |
| Corner sight triangle | - | 3 feet cap |
| Special permit | - | Up to 8 feet possible |
| Historic districts | - | Lowell Historic Board review |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Can I build an 8-foot privacy fence in my Cambridge backyard?
Not by right. You would need a special permit from the Board of Zoning Appeal demonstrating hardship or architectural justification.
Does a 6-foot fence need a permit in Cambridge?
Fences 6 feet or under typically need only a building permit if structural; non-structural wood fences may be exempt, confirm with Inspectional Services.
Lowell FAQ
Can I exceed 6 feet for privacy?
Only with a special permit showing a legitimate need, typically screening from commercial neighbors or security.
Does a trellis count as a fence?
Solid trellises and lattice attached to a fence frame count toward height; standalone garden trellises under 8 feet in limited runs usually do not.
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