StormSmart Regulations and Development Standards

There are a number of state, federal, and local regulations that govern whether development can occur and how it must be designed. These requirements are described in detail in Environmental Permitting in Massachusetts.

Communities have the ability to go above and beyond the basic state and federal requirements to better manage land use. Bylaws/ordinances, associated regulations, and development design and performance standards are the tools to implement community land use plans. Below is a list of opportunities for improving regulations and development standards to better protect people, property, and municipal resources for the benefit of the entire community, including developers, residents, business owners, and local government.

Land Use Requirements

• Passing strict zoning ordinances and regulations
• Passing a protective wetlands bylaw
• Considering potential future conditions when siting new development
• Keeping new public infrastructure out of hazard-prone areas
• Incorporating National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements into local ordinances and regulations
• Ensuring local regulations allow appropriate development techniques
• Creating permanent no-build areas

Safer Construction Practices

• Using freeboard to elevate structures above predicted floodwaters
• Requiring foundation/building certification
• Conducting inspections of lower-area enclosures (to ensure that regulations are followed)