Lowell property owners must clear snow and ice from sidewalks abutting their property within a set period after a storm ends, with fines for noncompliance during harsh winters.
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).
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.
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