Massachusetts erosion and sedimentation controls are mandated statewide through the Wetlands Protection Act (MGL c.131 §40) and the State Stormwater Standards, requiring uniform best management practices on regulated projects.
Erosion and sediment control on construction sites in Massachusetts is governed by MGL c.131 §40, 310 CMR 10.00, and the Massachusetts Stormwater Handbook. Standard 8 of the Stormwater Standards specifically requires construction-period erosion and sediment controls on all projects subject to the Wetlands Protection Act. The MS4 General Permit administered through MassDEP also imposes erosion controls on sites of one acre or more in regulated municipalities, applying uniformly across covered communities.
Sediment discharge or failure to install controls can trigger enforcement orders, daily fines under MGL c.131 §40, and federal Clean Water Act penalties for MS4 violations.
See how Belchertown's erosion control rules stack up against other locations.
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