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Norfolk County, MA Environmental Rules: Coastal Development (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: 310 CMR 10.00 Wetlands →

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Key Facts

County Rule?: None — state agencies
Coastal Towns: Quincy, Weymouth, Cohasset
Chapter 91: MGL c. 91, 310 CMR 9.00
Wetlands: MGL c. 131 §40
Public Access

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Norfolk County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Summary

Norfolk County has coastal frontage in Quincy, Weymouth, and Cohasset. Coastal development is regulated by MA Coastal Zone Management (CZM), Wetlands Protection Act, and Chapter 91 (tidelands law) — not by the county.

Full Breakdown

Coastal development in Norfolk County applies to Quincy (Wollaston Beach, Squantum, Hough's Neck), Weymouth (Wessagusset, Great Hill), and Cohasset (full coastal frontage). The county does not regulate. Key authorities: (1) MA Coastal Zone Management under MGL c. 21A §4A — consistency review for federal actions. (2) Wetlands Protection Act (MGL c. 131 §40) — 100 ft buffer from coastal banks, beaches, dunes, and salt marshes via Conservation Commission. (3) Chapter 91 Public Waterfront Act (MGL c. 91, 310 CMR 9.00) — licensing for structures on tidelands and filled tidelands. (4) Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) review for larger projects. (5) ASCE 24 / 780 CMR Appendix G flood-resistant construction. Sea level rise guidance through CZM's SLR-CFRM Viewer. Public beach access protected under Colonial Ordinance of 1641-1647 (low-water mark public trust).

Violations & Fines

No county enforcement. Wetlands violations: up to $25,000. Chapter 91 unlicensed structure: removal order, $50,000+ fines. Public access obstruction: daily MA AG enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who enforces coastal development rules in Norfolk County?

Norfolk County's code enforcement division is responsible for environmental ordinances. You can report violations or request information through the Norfolk County government website or by calling the main municipal line.

What are typical penalties for violating coastal development rules?

Most Norfolk County environmental violations start with a written warning followed by escalating civil fines for repeat offenses. Specific dollar amounts and any criminal-misdemeanor exposure depend on the section of code; consult Norfolk County's municipal code or staff for the current penalty schedule.

How does Norfolk County compare?

See how Norfolk County's coastal development rules stack up against other locations.

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Norfolk County, MA Environmental Rules: Coastal Development (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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