Weed Ordinances: Somerville vs Wakefield
How do weed ordinances rules compare between Somerville, MA and Wakefield, MA?
Somerville and Wakefield have similar restriction levels.
Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville treats noxious and overgrown weeds as nuisance property. There is no specific weed species list, but Inspectional Services can order abatement under property maintenance rules.
View full Somerville rules →Wakefield, MA
Middlesex County
Middlesex County weed regulations are enforced under MGL c.111 s.122 and local Board of Health bylaws. Noxious weeds, ragweed, and overgrown lots can trigger abatement orders and property liens.
View full Wakefield rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Somerville | Wakefield |
|---|---|---|
| State list | MA Dept of Agricultural Resources | - |
| Local rule | Property maintenance nuisance | - |
| Common invasives | Knotweed, bittersweet | - |
| Enforcement | Inspectional Services | - |
| Typical fine | 50-100 dollars per day | - |
| Nuisance Law | - | MGL c.111 s.122 |
| Prohibited Plants | - | 333 CMR 9.00 |
| Typical Fine | - | $50-$300 per day |
| Abatement | - | Town cuts and liens property |
| Exemptions | - | Registered pollinator gardens |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Somerville FAQ
Is there a list of banned weeds in Somerville?
No local list. Massachusetts maintains a prohibited plant list through the Dept of Agricultural Resources.
Who do I call about a neighbor letting weeds grow into my yard?
311. Inspectional Services can issue a property maintenance violation.
Wakefield FAQ
Can the town cut my weeds and bill me?
Yes. Under MGL c.111 s.122, the Board of Health can abate the nuisance and place a lien on your property for costs.
Are native meadows allowed?
Most towns allow registered native meadows and pollinator gardens. Check with your Conservation Commission or Board of Health.
Compare other topics
See how Somerville and Wakefield compare on other ordinance categories.
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