Erosion Control: Somerville vs Wakefield
How do erosion control rules compare between Somerville, MA and Wakefield, MA?
Somerville and Wakefield have similar restriction levels.
Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Construction sites in Somerville must install silt fence, stabilized entrances, and inlet protection before earthwork. Violations are $300 per day.
View full Somerville rules →Wakefield, MA
Middlesex County
Erosion and sediment control is required under the Wetlands Protection Act and local bylaws. Silt fence, stabilized entrances, and inlet protection are standard.
View full Wakefield rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Somerville | Wakefield |
|---|---|---|
| Design guide | MA Stormwater Handbook | - |
| Required BMPs | Silt fence, stabilized entry, inlet protection | - |
| Stabilization | 14 days for inactive areas | Within 14 days |
| Wetland jurisdiction | 100 feet Conservation | - |
| Fine | $300 per day typical | - |
| Regs | - | 310 CMR 10.00 |
| Core BMPs | - | Silt fence, inlets |
| Permit doc | - | Order of Conditions |
| Enforcement | - | ConCom and DPW |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Somerville FAQ
Do I need erosion controls for a small home addition?
Yes if you are disturbing soil. At minimum install silt fence around stockpiles and protect nearby catch basins. Permit conditions will specify.
Who inspects erosion controls?
DPW Engineering inspects larger projects; ISD building inspectors flag BMP failures on smaller permits. Complaints can be filed via Somerville 311.
Wakefield FAQ
Do I need a SWPPP?
Yes for sites disturbing one acre or more under the EPA CGP.
What is a ConCom?
The local Conservation Commission, which administers the Wetlands Protection Act.
Compare other topics
See how Somerville and Wakefield compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool