Massachusetts Water Management Act Outdoor Watering Restrictions

The Water Management Act, codified in MGL Chapter 21G, gives the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) authority to permit and regulate water withdrawals over 100,000 gallons per day. Permitted public water suppliers must comply with standard non-essential outdoor water use restrictions, generally limiting lawn irrigation to before 9 AM and after 5 PM, and imposing stricter limits or bans during state-declared drought levels. The Drought Management Plan triggers mandatory restrictions enforced through local water suppliers. Private wells are not subject to permit-based restrictions but may be limited by local boards of health.

Violations of water management permit conditions under Chapter 21G, Section 14 carry penalties up to $25,000 per day, while local enforcement of supplier restrictions typically begins with warnings and escalating fines.