Lowell grading work must comply with 780 CMR, direct runoff away from neighbors and the public right-of-way, and obtain a stormwater permit for disturbances over 5,000 square feet.
Grading on Lowell residential property must follow 780 CMR, the Massachusetts State Building Code, including Appendix J for grading. Finished grade must slope at least 6 inches within the first 10 feet away from the foundation. It is unlawful to grade in a way that redirects runoff onto a neighboring property or creates a nuisance. Land disturbances over 5,000 square feet require a stormwater permit from DPW Engineering with a grading and drainage plan. Work near any wetland, brook, or river within the 100-foot buffer requires Conservation Commission review. Importing fill in the FEMA floodplain requires a no-rise certification when in the regulated floodway.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Lowell, MA
Lowell applies the Massachusetts DEP 10-dB-above-ambient standard for objective measurement and uses a plainly-audible test for subjective enforcement.
Lowell, MA
Lowell restricts gas-powered leaf blower use to daytime hours; no outright ban exists, but decibel and hour limits apply under the general noise ordinance.
Lowell, MA
Outdoor music at restaurants, breweries, and event venues in Lowell requires an entertainment license and must end by 10 p.m. in residential zones.
Lowell, MA
Lowell enforces nighttime quiet hours that restrict unreasonable noise in residential areas, authorized under MGL c.40 s.21 and enforced by Lowell Police and...
Lowell, MA
Amplified music from homes, vehicles, or outdoor events in Lowell must not be plainly audible beyond 50 feet and is subject to permit rules for public venues.
Lowell, MA
Industrial operations in Lowell must keep noise within Massachusetts DEP guidelines and the local ordinance, with stricter limits at residential property lines.
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