What activities are subject to the Wetlands Protection Act?

The Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act is a state law that governs alterations such as filling, excavating, removing trees and other vegetation, erecting structures, paving, septic systems, landscaping, pool installation within 100 feet (Buffer Zone) of a wetland resource area or 200 feet of a perennial stream without a permit from the Conservation Commission. Typical examples of activities that are regulated, if they are to occur within resource areas or their 100-foot buffer zones, include but are not limited to: depositing fill, excavating, removing vegetation including trees, changing water levels, discharging storm water, polluting, placing structures, and utilizing chemicals. There are certain limited exemptions that apply to commercial agriculture, forestry, and utility maintenance.

Show All Answers

1. What are wetlands, floodplains and riverfronts?
2. Why are wetlands, floodplains and riverfronts protected?
3. How are boundaries of wetlands and floodplains identified?
4. What activities are subject to the Wetlands Protection Act?
5. What if work is planned in or near a resource area?
6. What happens if a violation of the Act occurs?
7. What other wetland related regulations may apply?
8. How can I get more information?