Boston property owners must remove rank weeds, invasive vegetation, and sidewalk weeds under City Code Ch. 16. Noxious weeds on the Massachusetts Prohibited Plant List cannot be planted.
Under Boston City Code 16-12 the abutting property owner is responsible for maintaining the sidewalk and tree pit adjacent to the property, including weed removal. Rank growth on vacant lots is a sanitary nuisance. The Massachusetts Prohibited Plant List bans sale, distribution, and importation of invasive species like Japanese knotweed, purple loosestrife, oriental bittersweet, and Norway maple. Existing plants do not have to be removed but should not be propagated. Poison ivy and giant hogweed are public health hazards and ISD Environmental Services will order removal within 30 days of notice. Herbicide use on city street trees requires Parks approval.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Boston code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Boston, MA
Boston has no general ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, statues, or yard decorations on private residential property. Decorations must stay within proper...
Boston, MA
Boston has no specific ordinance regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must not encroach on sidewalks, block pu...
Boston, MA
Boston does not have a dedicated ordinance regulating holiday lighting on private residential property. General nuisance, electrical safety, and historic dis...
Boston, MA
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Boston require Inspectional Services Department permits when they include gas, plumbing, electrical, or structural work. Built-...
Boston, MA
Boston treats smokers and solid-fuel grills (wood, pellet, charcoal) the same as charcoal grills under Massachusetts Fire Code 527 CMR 1.00. Use on balconies...
Boston, MA
Boston's Fire Prevention Code (527 CMR 1.00, Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code) prohibits the use or storage of LP-gas grills and propane cylinder...
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