40U Code Enforcement

40U Property Violations can be paid online.
 Please note, you will need to create a free OpenGov account to use online bill pay.  Once you have an account, please call 978-829-1870 with your violation number and ask for the violation to be assigned to your OpenGov account.

The City of Fitchburg passed ordinances in 2022 as a collaborative effort to combat blight and curbside violations using Massachusetts General Laws, Ch. 40U for code enforcement.

What this means for the community:

  • Properties in violation of city and state codes can be issued fines through 40U.  These fines vary depending on the nature of the violation but generally range between $25 and $300 per violation. 
  • Upon receiving a ticket and fine, a property owner has 21 days to pay or submit an appeal request for a hearing with the Municipal Hearing Officer.
  • If the ticket is not paid nor appealed (no response), the alleged violator will receive a notification providing an additional 30 days to pay, and an additional $10 administrative fee will be added.
  • If a ticket remains unpaid after the 30 day period, the fine will be reported to the City Tax Collector and will become a charge against the property, that will appear on the property tax bill. 

These new regulations went into effect on February 1, 2025.. If residents have questions, please call the Health Department at 978-829-1870.  The Ordinances commonly enforced by tickets and fines are listed below.

Appeals of Health Division Tickets

Appeals for any local or state code/ordinance violations must be submitted in writing or online using the 40U Appeals Application within 21 days of the date of the ticket. Appellants can request an in-person hearing or an appeal by mail with a decision in writing. For any appeal in writing by mail, be sure to submit all evidence with your request, including any photographs or back-up information supporting your argument.

After receiving your request for an appeal, the Health Department will send you a date and time for your scheduled hearing. All hearings will be scheduled within 45 days of the request:

Health Department office

718 Main St 2nd floor

Fitchburg, MA  01420

Hearings start at 5PM unless otherwise noted on your notice of appeal hearing. 

Failure to appear at a scheduled hearing will result in the fine being upheld.

Any fines that remain upheld after a hearing must be paid within 21 days.  Any unpaid fines will become a lien on the real estate tax bill.

Form to Appeal to Worcester Housing Court - Use this form to appeal the decision of the 40U Municipal Hearing Officer