Boston requires stormwater management plans for any land disturbance over 1 acre under the city's Stormwater Management Ordinance and the EPA MS4 permit. The Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC) administers stormwater utilities and requires on-site retention for new development. Projects must comply with MassDEP Stormwater Management Standards.
Boston's stormwater program is administered by the BWSC under the city's MS4 permit and local drainage regulations. All new development and redevelopment projects disturbing more than 1 acre must submit a Stormwater Management Plan demonstrating compliance with MassDEP's 10 Stormwater Management Standards. Boston requires post-development peak runoff rates not to exceed pre-development rates for the 2-year and 10-year storms. The BWSC charges a stormwater utility fee based on impervious area. Low Impact Development (LID) techniques such as rain gardens, permeable pavement, and green roofs are encouraged and can reduce fees. The city's Climate Ready Boston initiative has increased stormwater infiltration requirements in flood-vulnerable areas. Construction sites must implement erosion and sediment controls per the EPA Construction General Permit.
Failure to implement required stormwater controls can result in BWSC enforcement actions, stop-work orders from the Inspectional Services Department, and fines up to $25,000 per day under the federal Clean Water Act for MS4 permit violations. Illicit discharges to the storm drain system carry penalties under Boston Municipal Code.
Boston, MA
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Boston, MA
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Boston, MA
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Boston, MA
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Boston, MA
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Boston, MA
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