Massachusetts Chapter 91 Public Waterfront Act Coastal Licensing

MGL c.91, the Public Waterfront Act, requires a state license from MassDEP for any fill, structure, or change of use in tidelands, Great Ponds, and navigable waters. Implementing regulations at 310 CMR 9.00 establish uniform standards for water-dependent uses, public access, and historic public rights. The Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management provides federal consistency review under the Coastal Zone Management Act. Local approvals do not substitute for required Chapter 91 licenses.

Unlicensed structures or fill can be ordered removed at the owner's expense, with fines up to $25,000 per day under MGL c.21A §16 and Chapter 91 enforcement.