Lowell, MA Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)

Under MGL Chapter 85 Section 5 and Lowell ordinance, property owners and occupants are responsible for clearing snow and ice from public sidewalks abutting their property. Snow must be removed within a defined period (typically 10 to 12 hours after a storm ends during daylight hours, or by a morning deadline after overnight storms), and icy patches must be treated with sand or ice melt. Snow cannot be pushed into the street, onto fire hydrants, or onto crosswalks and curb ramps. Violations trigger fines that escalate with repeat offenses, and the city may hire a contractor to clear the walk and bill the owner. Property owners may also face civil liability for falls on uncleared walks under Massachusetts snow and ice premises liability case law (Papadopoulos v. Target 2010).