All residential swimming pools in Lowell must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches tall with self-closing, self-latching gates, per 780 CMR.
The Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR Appendix V, Swimming Pools) requires that every residential pool (including inflatable and above-ground pools that hold more than 24 inches of water) be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches tall measured on the outside. Openings in the barrier cannot allow passage of a 4-inch sphere, and gates must be self-closing, self-latching, and open outward away from the pool. Latch release mechanisms must be at least 54 inches above the ground. Where a house wall serves as one side of the barrier, doors leading to the pool area must have alarms or be secured by automatic pool covers meeting ASTM F1346. Above-ground pools can use the pool wall as the barrier if the wall itself is at least 48 inches and any ladder is removable or lockable. The Lowell Building Department inspects barriers before issuing a pool permit and re-inspects after installation.
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.
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Middlesex County.
See how other cities in Middlesex County handle pool barriers.
See how Lowell's pool barriers rules stack up against other locations.
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