Boston requires owners of vacant lots to maintain them in a clean, safe, and secure condition. Lots must be free of debris, vegetation must be kept under 12 inches, and the lot must be secured against unauthorized access. The city can abate nuisances on vacant lots at the owner's expense.
Vacant lots in Boston are subject to property maintenance requirements under the municipal code and state sanitary code. Owners must keep lots free of rubbish, abandoned vehicles, and construction debris. Vegetation must not exceed 12 inches in height during the growing season (April through November). Lots must be graded to prevent standing water and must be secured with appropriate fencing if they pose a safety hazard. Owners of vacant lots must register with ISD if the lot has been vacant for more than one year. The city's Department of Neighborhood Development (DND) manages a portfolio of city-owned vacant lots and makes some available for community gardens and affordable housing development through the disposition process. Complaints about unmaintained vacant lots are handled through 311 and ISD enforcement. The city may file liens against properties where it performs abatement work.
Failure to maintain a vacant lot carries fines of $300 per day. The city may perform emergency abatement (mowing, debris removal, securing) and bill the property owner. Unpaid abatement costs become a lien on the property. Chronic violations may result in tax title proceedings.
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...
See how Boston's vacant lot maintenance rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.