How to File an Appeal
M.G.L. Chapter 40U and M.G.L. Chapter 148A allow individuals to
appeal unpaid tickets within 21 days from the date the ticket was issued as instructed on the violation notice.
The appeal must include:
- The name, address and contact information of the person appealing the ticket.
- The name and address of the registered owner of the address cited.
- The reason for the appeal.
- Any evidence, diagrams or documentation supporting the appeal.
Submit Your Appeal
The appeal may be returned in person or by mail (within 21 days from the date the ticket was issued) to:
Municipal Hearing Officer
Development Services Office
375 Merrimack Street, Room 55
Lowell, MA 01852
Hearing Process
In accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 40U, a hearing will be scheduled with 45 days of receiving the request. Notice to appear before the Municipal Hearing Officer will be sent via USPS mail to the address listed by the appellant.
Decisions made by the Municipal Hearing Officer are final. An appellant may appeal the Municipal Hearing Officer's decision as outlined by M.G.L. Chapter 40, § 21D.
Comments, questions, or concerns related to Building, Zoning, or Sanitary Code Violation Ticket Appeals may be directed to the Municipal Hearing Officer at 978-674-4155, where every attempt to return your call in a timely manner will be made as appropriate - please note, however, that due to the volume of calls received, there may be delays in responding.
Keep in mind that
all appeals are due in the office within 21 days from the date the ticket was issued, regardless of any questions you may have, as set by state law.