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Massachusetts Statewide Rule

Massachusetts Airport Approach Structure Height Limits

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Massachusetts (2026)

Key Facts

Statute
MGL c. 90 App.
Trigger Height
200 feet AGL
Authority
MassDOT Aeronautics
Federal Tie-In
FAR Part 77
Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Massachusetts General Court

Summary

Massachusetts regulates structure heights near public-use airports statewide through the Aeronautics Division, requiring permits for tall structures that may obstruct navigable airspace under MGL Chapter 90 Appendix.

No person shall erect or add to the height of any structure within a rectangular area lying fifteen hundred feet on either side of the extended center line of a runway or landing strip of an airport approved by the commission for a distance of two miles from the end of such runway or landing strip so that the height thereof will be more than one hundred and fifty feet above the level of such runway or landing strip, nor, within that portion of such area which is within a distance of three thousand feet from the end of such runway or landing strip, so that the height thereof will be greater than a height above the level of such runway or landing strip determined by the ratio of one foot vertically to every twenty feet horizontally measured from the end of such runway or landing strip, unless a permit therefor has been granted by the commission.

Source: Massachusetts General CourtView official code

Full Breakdown

Under MGL c. 90, App. 1-1 through 1-9, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation Aeronautics Division enforces airport approach protection consistent with FAR Part 77. Any structure exceeding 200 feet above ground or penetrating airport imaginary surfaces requires state airspace review and FAA Form 7460-1 filing. This authority preempts inconsistent local zoning that would permit obstructions to navigable airspace under the doctrine of state preemption in MGL c. 90 App. 1-13.

Violations & Penalties

Construction halt orders, civil penalties up to $1,000 per violation under MGL c. 90 App., mandatory marking and lighting, removal of unpermitted obstructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does state airspace law preempt local zoning?
Yes, MGL c. 90 Appendix grants the Aeronautics Division authority over airport approach areas, preempting local zoning that would allow airspace obstructions.
When is FAA Form 7460-1 required in Massachusetts?
It is required for any structure over 200 feet AGL or any structure penetrating Part 77 surfaces near a public-use airport, regardless of local height rules.
Can towns set lower height limits than state law?
Yes, local zoning can set lower height limits, but cannot authorize structures that would penetrate state-protected airspace surfaces near airports.

Sources

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