Coastal Development: Lowell vs Wakefield
How do coastal development rules compare between Lowell, MA and Wakefield, MA?
Lowell and Wakefield have similar restriction levels.
Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Massachusetts regulates all tidelands and coastal development statewide under Chapter 91 (MGL c.91) and 310 CMR 9.00, requiring state licenses for structures and fill in tidelands regardless of municipality.
View full Lowell rules →Wakefield, MA
Middlesex County
Massachusetts regulates all tidelands and coastal development statewide under Chapter 91 (MGL c.91) and 310 CMR 9.00, requiring state licenses for structures and fill in tidelands regardless of municipality.
View full Wakefield rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lowell | Wakefield |
|---|---|---|
| Statute | MGL c.91 | MGL c.91 |
| Regulation | 310 CMR 9.00 | 310 CMR 9.00 |
| Issuer | MassDEP statewide | MassDEP statewide |
| Scope | Tidelands and waterways | Tidelands and waterways |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lowell FAQ
Do I need a Chapter 91 license for a small dock in Massachusetts?
Yes for most docks, piers, and floats in tidelands or navigable waters. Some small recreational docks may qualify for general license categories under 310 CMR 9.05.
Does a local conservation permit replace a Chapter 91 license?
No. Chapter 91 licensing by MassDEP is separate from and in addition to local conservation commission orders under the Wetlands Protection Act.
Wakefield FAQ
Do I need a Chapter 91 license for a small dock in Massachusetts?
Yes for most docks, piers, and floats in tidelands or navigable waters. Some small recreational docks may qualify for general license categories under 310 CMR 9.05.
Does a local conservation permit replace a Chapter 91 license?
No. Chapter 91 licensing by MassDEP is separate from and in addition to local conservation commission orders under the Wetlands Protection Act.
Compare other topics
See how Lowell and Wakefield compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool