Snow & Sidewalk Clearing: Lowell vs Waltham
How do snow & sidewalk clearing rules compare between Lowell, MA and Waltham, MA?
Lowell and Waltham 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 →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Waltham property owners must clear snow and ice from abutting sidewalks within a set time after snowfall ends. The rule follows MGL c.85 s.5 authority and applies to residential and commercial abutters.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lowell | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Who Must Clear | - | Abutting property owner |
| Min Width | - | Approximately 36 inches |
| Ice Treatment | - | Sand, salt, or ice melt |
| Prohibited | - | Pushing snow into street |
| Authority | - | MGL c.85 s.5 |
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.
Waltham FAQ
Must I shovel my Waltham sidewalk?
Yes. Property owners must clear snow and ice from sidewalks abutting their property within the time set by city rules after a storm ends.
Can I push snow into the street?
No. Pushing snow into streets, onto hydrants, or onto bus stops is prohibited and can result in fines.
Compare other topics
See how Lowell and Waltham compare on other ordinance categories.
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