All construction projects in Boston must implement erosion and sediment controls per BWSC requirements and the EPA Construction General Permit. Projects disturbing 1 or more acres require a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). The Boston Conservation Commission may impose additional controls near wetlands and waterways.
Boston requires erosion and sediment control measures on all construction and land-disturbing activities. Projects disturbing 1 acre or more must obtain coverage under the EPA NPDES Construction General Permit and prepare a SWPPP. The BWSC reviews drainage and erosion control plans as part of site plan approval. Required measures include silt fencing, sediment basins, stabilized construction entrances, and temporary seeding of exposed soils. The Boston Conservation Commission, under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (MGL c.131 §40) and the city's local wetlands ordinance, imposes additional erosion controls within 100 feet of wetlands and 200 feet of rivers. Dewatering discharges require BWSC approval. All controls must be inspected weekly and after rain events exceeding 0.5 inches.
Failure to maintain erosion controls can result in stop-work orders from ISD, BWSC fines, and EPA penalties up to $25,000 per day. Work within wetland buffer zones without Conservation Commission approval carries fines under MGL c.131 §40. Sediment discharge to storm drains is an illicit discharge violation.
Boston, MA
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Boston, MA
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Boston, MA
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Boston, MA
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