Massachusetts Statewide Rule

Massachusetts Water Management Act Outdoor Watering Restrictions

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Massachusetts (2026)

Key Facts

Governing Law: MGL Chapter 21G
Agency: MassDEP
Standard Hours: Before 9 AM, after 5 PM
Max Penalty: $25,000 per day

Last verified: August 21, 2026Source: Massachusetts General Court

Summary

The Massachusetts Water Management Act and related MassDEP drought regulations authorize statewide outdoor watering limits during declared drought conditions, applying uniformly across communities served by permitted public water suppliers.

Section 41A. A board of water commissioners or a board of public works with the duties of water commissioners of a municipality, water supply, fire and water district or water company having control of water supplies may, on behalf of their respective bodies politic or corporate, upon notification to the water takers, restrain the use of water on public and private premises by shutting off the water at the meter or at the curb cock or by other means as the case may be, during a drought, hurricane, conflagration or other disaster when in the opinion of the department of environmental protection an emergency exists.

Source: Massachusetts General CourtView official code

Full Breakdown

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 & Penalties

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do statewide watering restrictions apply during a drought declaration?

Yes. When MassDEP declares drought levels, public water suppliers under Water Management Act permits must implement the corresponding non-essential outdoor water use restrictions across their service areas.

Are private wells subject to Massachusetts watering restrictions?

Private wells are not regulated under the Water Management Act, but local boards of health and conservation commissions may impose restrictions during drought, especially in areas with stressed aquifers.

Sources

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