Somerville, MA Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

Section 11-146 was adopted by Ordinance 2020-11 (effective May 14, 2020) to carry out the city's NPDES General Permit for its municipal separate storm sewer system and to eliminate adverse effects of soil erosion and sedimentation from land-disturbing activity. Any construction activity, including clearing, grading, paving and excavation, that could increase runoff or introduce pollutants to the storm drainage system needs a site construction permit from the city engineer before work starts; routine maintenance that keeps the original grade, capacity or purpose of a site is not covered.

Four categories are exempt: fencing that will not substantially alter terrain or drainage, non-drainage utility work such as gas, electric or telephone lines, projects already approved before the ordinance took effect, and emergency work to protect life, limb or property. The city engineer publishes the permit rules, regulations and fees, updates the city council each January 1, and may allow a de minimis exemption for minor work. Before a building permit issues for a project needing a stormwater management facility, the applicant must post a surety or cash bond at least equal to the total estimated construction cost of that facility; the bond is not released until the city engineer completes a final inspection, receives as-built plans and certifies compliance.

The city engineer may waive strict compliance for small-scale, de minimis projects on written request with supporting documentation. Waivers, permits and bonding are separate from the litter and snow-clearing duties owners already owe under other chapters of the code.