Snow & Sidewalk Clearing: Lowell vs Somerville
How do snow & sidewalk clearing rules compare between Lowell, MA and Somerville, MA?
Lowell and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Lowell property owners must clear snow and ice from sidewalks abutting their property within a set period after a storm ends, with fines for noncompliance during harsh winters.
View full Lowell rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville requires abutters to clear sidewalks within 6 hours of daytime snowfall ending or by 10 am if the storm ended overnight. Fines escalate and the city can clear and bill the owner.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lowell | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Statute | MGL c.85 s.5 and local rule | - |
| Clearance Window | 10 to 12 hours after storm | - |
| No Pushing | Into street or hydrants | - |
| City Abatement | Billed to owner | - |
| Civil Liability | Papadopoulos v. Target | - |
| State law | - | MGL c.85 s.5 |
| Daytime deadline | - | 6 hours after snow ends |
| Overnight deadline | - | 10 am |
| Minimum width | - | 36 inches |
| City clearing | - | Billed to owner |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lowell FAQ
Do tenants or owners clear?
Owners are ultimately liable; leases may shift duty to tenants but not liability.
What about corner lots?
Owners must also clear the curb ramp at each crosswalk abutting the lot.
Somerville FAQ
Does the 6-hour rule apply on weekends and holidays?
Yes. Somerville applies the same deadlines every day. Absent owners should arrange clearing in advance.
Can I be sued if someone slips?
Yes. Since the Papadopoulos decision in 2010, Massachusetts property owners are liable for negligent snow and ice maintenance on premises and abutting walks.
Compare other topics
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