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Policies & Guidance Documents

Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Combined Sewer Overflows Policies & Guidance

Pollution Abatement from Combined Sewer Overflow Discharges - Guidance

August 11, 1997
MS Word 96 KB | PDF 55 KB

Pollution Abatement from Combined Sewer Overflows - Policy

August 11, 1997
MS Word 267 KB

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Drinking Water Guidance

2011 Standards and Guidelines for Contaminants in Massachusetts Drinking Water

The 2011 Standards & Guidelines for Contaminants are intended to provide the public with information on the safety and integrity of drinking water in Massachusetts. A maximum contaminant level (MCL), the highest concentration that is allowed in drinking water, is provided for each contaminant, with technical explanations and references. June 2011.
Web page

Guidelines for Public Water Systems

Introduction (June 2009)
MS Word 106 KB | PDF 64 KB
Chapter 1: Submission of Public Water System Designs, Plans, and Reports (December 2009)
MS Word 158 KB | PDF 45 KB
Chapter 2: General Design Considerations (December 2009)
MS Word 136 KB | PDF 41 KB
Chapter 3: Surface Water Supply Development (June 2009)
MS Word 85 KB | PDF 36 KB
Chapter 4: Groundwater Supply Development and the Source Approval Process (March 2008)
MS Word 530 KB | PDF 447 KB
Chapter 5: Treatment (February 2011)
MS Word 747 KB | PDF 582 KB
Chapter 6: Chemical Application (December 2009)
MS Word 279 KB | PDF 76 KB
Chapter 7: Pumping Facilities (April 2009)
MS Word 101 KB | PDF 40 KB
Chapter 8: Finished Water Storage (May 2011)
MS Word 123 KB | PDF 86 KB
Chapter 9: Distribution System Piping and Appurtenances (May 2011)
MS Word 168 KB | PDF 68 KB
Chapter 10: Water Management Act Requirements (July 1996; reformatted August 2010)
MS Word 205 KB | PDF 107 KB
Chapter 11: Capacity Development (April 2011)
MS Word 241 KB | PDF 115 KB
Chapter 12: Emergency Response Planning (December 2009)
MS Word 82 KB | PDF 93 KB

Appendix A, Water Quality Testing Requirements for Source Approval:
MS Word 60 KB | PDF 9 KB
Appendix B, Sample Affidavit:
MS Word 23 KB | PDF 12 KB
Appendix C [RESERVED]
Appendix D, Zone I/Interim Wellhead Protection Area Protective Radii Graphs:
MS Word 48 KB | PDF 12 KB
Appendix E, Zone II Map Title Block:
MS Word 23 KB | PDF 13 KB
Appendix F, Water Management Program Request for Site Exam/Site Screening Package:
Web page
Appendix G, Guidelines for New and Existing Transient Non-Community Groundwater Sources with Approved Yields Less than 10,000 Gallons per Day:
Web page
Appendix H, DEP Addresses and Maps:
see "Find Your Region"
Appendix I [RESERVED]
Appendix J [RESERVED]
Appendix K, Massachusetts Water Protection Regulations:
MS Word 24 KB | PDF 7 KB
Appendix L [RESERVED]
Appendix M, Consumer Confidence Reporting Requirements - revised March 2012:
MS Word 969 KB | PDF 333 KB
Appendix N, Requirements for Microbial Toolbox Options for Meeting Cryptosporidium Treatment Requirements under the Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule:
MS Word 131 KB | PDF 79 KB
Appendix O, Handbook for Water Supply Emergencies:
Web page

Beaver Control Near Public Water Supply Sources - Guidance

Guidance for determining if beaver or muskrat populations pose a contamination threat to public water supplies, and appropriate response action. October 2005.
MS Word 33 KB | PDF 34 KB

Bottled Water Memorandum of Understanding between MassDEP and the Department of Public Health

Memorandum of Understanding addressing the review, approval, and monitoring of source waters for bottled water and carbonated non-alcoholic beverages. February 2001.
MS Word 66 KB

Capacity Development

Resources for water supply capacity development
Web page

Compliance with Bioterrorism Act

Guidance on Compliance with the federal Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002. October 2005.
Web page

DWP's use of Office of Research and Standards Drinking Water Guidelines and US EPA Health Advisory Levels

Discusses the role of Office of Research and Standards Drinking Water Guidelines and US EPA Health Advisory Levels when a contaminant is detected in drinking water. December 2009.
Web page

Emergency Planning and Preparedness Tips for WWTP and WTP Operators

Planning for and responding to emergencies at water and wastewater treatment plants. October 2007.
Web page

Emergency Response

Resources for planning, response, and follow-up at emergencies in your surface drinking water source.
Web page

Information to be Submitted to MassDEP for Proposed Wind and Solar Energy Projects on Lands Owned or Controlled By Public Water Systems for Drinking Water Purposes (Energy Project Guidance)

Guidance for public water suppliers proposed on lands owned by public water systems. Updated March 2012.
MS Word 46 KB | PDF 33 KB

Floor Drain Planning and Implementation Factsheet

These tips are designed to assist local officials with planning and implementing a floor drain control (regulation or bylaw) as required by 310 CMR 22.21(a)(8). September 2007.
Web page

Massachusetts Closure Requirements for Underground Injection Control Wells (Guidance # BRP/DWM/DW/G04-3)

This guidance applies to the closure of all unauthorized and authorized-by-rule Class IV or V shallow injection wells in Massachusetts. Revised July 2008.
Web page

Injection Well Closure - Appendix: Q&A for the Non-technical Reader

Frequently asked questions about the UIC Program, defining injection wells and how they are regulated. October 2005.
Web page

Local Fairs - Procedures for Private Water Supply Oversight by Local Boards of Health

Recommended procedures for boards of health to oversee the safety of water supplies at local fairs. Updated August 2007.
Web page

MTBE: Derivation of the Massachusetts Drinking Water Guideline

Explanation of how MassDEP's Office of Research & Standards established the guideline for the level of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) in drinking water. August 1995.
Web page

Monitoring Frequency for Tetrachloroethylene in Drinking Water

Guidance for public water systems on monitoring for tetrachloroethylene (PCE) in drinking water. June 2009.
Web page

Municipal Compliance Fact Sheet: Drinking Water

What municipal officials need to know about providing clean, safe drinking water to their communities.
Web page

New or expanding source of public water supply - Early Notice Guidance

This guidance is part of the process for siting a new water supply source or expanding an existing one. July 2003.
Web page

Perchlorate: Best Management Practices for Fireworks

Perchlorate is a toxic chemical found in fireworks as a propellant. Because of health concerns relating to this contaminant, MassDEP has developed these best management practices to help control perchlorate in water supplies. April 2008.
Web page

Pipe Bursting of Potable Water Mains

Guidance for replacing water mains using pre-chlorinated high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe, in conjunction with Drinking Water Program Policy 09-02, "Pipe Bursting of Potable Water Mains Using Pre- and Post-Chlorinated HDPE Pipe" (see under Drinking Water Policies below).
MS Word 196 KB | PDF 70 KB

Preparing for a Sanitary Survey

Tips for the small system operator. January 2006.
MS Word (minimal graphics) 644 KB | PDF (full graphics) 930 KB

Private Well Guidelines

These guidelines are primarily intended to assist Boards of Health and well drillers by attempting to introduce some consistency regarding construction standards from town to town. The Guidelines also provide information useful to the private well owner, developers, and interested local officials. May 2008.
MS Word 3.6 MB | PDF 1.5 MB

Private Wells - Testing Parameters and Frequency Guidelines

While MassDEP does not regulate private wells or mandate testing for private water supplies, these are recommended guidelines for testing. Revised December 2008.
MS Word 199 KB | PDF 63 KB

Public Notification - Guidance

Public notification requirements, procedures, templates, and more.
Web page

Reservoir Maintenance - Guidance

Identifying and controlling impacts to natural resources from routine maintenance at reservoirs.May 2004.
MS Word 68 KB | PDF 46 KB

Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002

Guidance for community water systems serving a population of 3300 or more on complying with this federal legislation.
Web page

Small System Capacity Development - Guidance from US EPA

Tools and resources to help manage small systems, from the US EPA.
US EPA Web site

Sodium in Public Drinking Water

This file includes sodium guidance, regulations, fact sheet, and notification form. October 2006
MS Word 50 KB | PDF 28 KB

Surface Water Supply Protection Plan Development

A guide for water systems to use in developing local surface water supply protection plans, which can help protect against waterborne disease and save money in treatment costs. May 2000.
MS Word 1.4 MB | PDF 680 KB

Submetering

Guidance on the use of sub-meters in residential buildings. April 2005.
Web page

Testing Requirements for Public Water Systems - Summary

Monitoring requirements for various contaminants in public water systems. Updated October 2010.
MS Word 357 KB | PDF 47 KB

Toxic Chemical Regulation in Massachusetts Waters

MassDEP's program for evaluating risks to human health and the environment from waterborne toxins. December 1990.
MS Word 433 KB | PDF 416 KB

Utilities Helping Utilities: Mutual Aid Networks for Emergency Response

Guidance on Creating and Implementing a Mutual Aid and Assistance Program
Web page

Uranium Activity to Mass Conversion Factor Guideline

Converting measurements of uranium in drinking water into a reporting factor that can be used to determine system compliance. July 2002.
Web page

Water Commissioners and Local Boards: Roles and Responsibilities for Drinking Water Compliance and Coordination

This guide outlines what roles water commissioners, cities, towns, police, and boards of health play in ensuring safe drinking water. December 2007.
Web page

Water District Organizational Checklist

A list of organizational documents a water district should have on file. September 2004.
MS Word 64 KB | PDF 27 KB

Water Resource Management Planning

Guidance Document for communities, providing concise and integrated guidance for planning water resources infrastructure projects with funds from the SRF.
Web page

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Drinking Water Policies

Drinking Water Policies: Table of Contents

Updated January 2010.
MS Word 54 KB | PDF 11 KB

87-04: Procedures for Use of EPA's Proposed Maxium Contaminant Levels

MS Word 47 KB | PDF 38 KB

87-05: Declaration of State of Water Supply Emergency revised 2/97

MS Word 102 KB | PDF 91 KB

87-06: Boil Water Orders or Do Not Drink Orders

MS Word 33 KB | PDF 28 KB

87-17: Water Vending Machine Policy

MS Word 33 KB | PDF 8 KB

87-17a: Water Vending Machine Policy Addendum and Attachment

MS Word 24 KB | PDF 16 KB

87-18: DEP Sampling and Analysis for Public Water Systems

MS Word 34 KB | PDF 16 KB

87-25: Items to Consider When Conditioning New Source Approvals

MS Word 30 KB | PDF 17 KB

87-27: Procedures Relative to the Detection of Contaminants During the New Source Approval Process

MS Word 36 KB | PDF 16 KB

88-01: Trichloroethylene TCE Air Stripper Policy

MS Word 36 KB | PDF 14 KB

88-03: Interim Wellhead Protection/Area

MS Word 43 KB | PDF 33 KB

88-06: Estimated Registration Statement

MS Word 35 KB | PDF 17 KB

88-10: Daily Consumption per Person

MS Word 32 KB | PDF 14 KB

88-11: Public Water System Determination

MS Word 32 KB | PDF 14 KB

88-12: Procedure for Changing Public Water Supply Classification

MS Word 33 KB | PDF 12 KB

88-14: Secondary Standards Exceedances

MS Word 36 KB | PDF 24 KB

88-16: Volatile Organic Compound Sampling: Confirmation Sampling and Discounting Results

MS Word 34 KB | PDF 16 KB

88-19: Request for Final Inspection of New or Improved Treatment Facilities

MS Word 32 KB | PDF 14 KB

88-23: Consecutive Public Water Systems - Bacterial Contamination Validation Sampling

MS Word 34 KB | PDF 16 KB

88-25: Policy on Metering Requirements for Water Management Act Registrants and Permit Applicants

MS Word 39 KB | PDF 21 KB

89-01: New Product or Technology Review Policy

MS Word 41 KB | PDF 21 KB

89-04: Review of Water Conservation Plans Submitted by Public Water Suppliers for Water Management Permits

MS Word 35 KB | PDF 16 KB

89-06: Public Notice Requirements - Water Management Act Application

MS Word 35 KB | PDF 16 KB

90-04: Pilot Study Requirements for Proposed Treatment

MS Word 77 KB | PDF 52 KB

91-02: Treatment for Radionuclide Removal

MS Word 32 KB | PDF 14 KB

91-05: Follow-up Action for Coliform positive Results from a Single Routine Sampling Point

MS Word 35 KB | PDF 15 KB

91-06: Variances from the Total Coliform Rule

MS Word 37 KB | PDF 18 KB

91-07: Acceptability of Results from Radiological Laboratories Certified Outside Massachusetts

MS Word 33 KB | PDF 14 KB

91-09: Use of Bottled Water by Public Water Suppliers

MS Word 30 KB | PDF 17 KB
Attachment: US EPA definition of "human consumption":
MS Word 66 KB | PDF 47 KB

92-05: Procedure for Determining the Activity Type and Status of a Drinking Water Source

MS Word 38 KB | PDF 16 KB

92-07: Bulk Water Suppliers - Sampling Requirements and Transport Responsibility

MS Word 37 KB | PDF 27 KB

93-01a: Requirement for Disinfection with Water Supply Treatment

MS Word 33 KB | PDF 15 KB

93-02: Operation and Maintenance Manuals

MS Word 38 KB | PDF 19 KB

94-01: Revised Massachusetts Closure Requirements for Shallow Injection Wells

This policy has been superseded by the "Massachusetts Closure Requirements for Underground Injection Control Wells (Guidance # BRP/DWM/DW/G04-3)." July 2008.
Web page

94-02: Determination of Public or Private Water System Type for Establishments Serving Food

MS Word 47 KB | PDF 36 KB

94-03: Implementation of Zone I Requirements

Supersedes Policy 94-03a, and incorporates and amends Policy 95-04, Control of Zone I Within Publicly Owned Lands. Effective May 2011.
MS Word 109 KB | PDF 44 KB

95-04: PWS Control of Zone I Within Publicly Owned Lands

This Policy has been incorporated into Policy 94-03, above.

96-02: Safe Drinking Water Act Assessment Billing and Collection Policy

MS Word 56 KB | PDF 27 KB

97-01: Zone II Status Policy

MS Word 26 KB | PDF 13 KB

98-01: Antenna Policy Guidelines, DWS G98-01, DWP 98-01

MS Word 35 KB | PDF 38 KB

03-1: Review of Sewer Line/Water Supply Protection (updated January 2003)

MS Word 41 KB | PDF 29 KB

06-01: Massachusetts Contract Operator Requirements

MS Word 342 KB | PDF 169 KB

08-01: Substantial Modifications To A Public Water System That Require A Permit

MS Word 50 KB | PDF 31 KB

08-02: Actions to Protect Public Health in the Period Between Federal Rule Promulgation and State Promulgation

December 2008.
MS Word 34 KB | PDF 15 KB

09-02: Pipe Bursting of Potable Water Mains Using Pre- and Post-Chlorinated HDPE Pipe

MS Word 63 KB | PDF 17 KB

11-01: Wind and Solar Energy Projects Proposed in Zone I

Web page

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Coastal Resources & Estuaries Policies & Guidance

Guidance for Emergency Repairs in Wetland Resource Areas or Buffer Zones, & Waterways

Guidance for homeowners and local officials in the event of a sudden or unforeseen emergency - September 2010
Web page

Embayment Restoration and Guidance for Implementation Strategies

Massachusetts Estuaries Project Guidance
MS Word 687 KB | PDF 2 MB | Appendices PDF 1 MB

Rebuilding of Primary Coastal Dunes

MassDEP's Guidance for Homeowners & Conservation Commissions Relative to Storm Emergency Certification, May 2007
Web page

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Groundwater Discharge Permitting Policies & Guidance

Design, Construction, Operation, and Maintenance of Small Wastewater Treatment Facilities with Land Disposal - Guidelines

Small wastewater treatment facilities are defined as those with a sewage flow between 10,000 and 150,000 gallons per day (gpd).
MS Word 1.7 MB | PDF 524 KB

Nutrient Loading Approach to Wastewater Permitting and Disposal

MS Word 139 KB

Massachusetts Dairy Farm Milkhouse Wastewater Management Pilot Program

MassDEP and the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources have established a pilot program that allows dairy farms to discharge wastewater from processing dairy products to vegetated areas where plants will treat the wastewater before it reaches ground water. Farms participating in the pilot program will NOT need to obtain MassDEP groundwater discharge permits, provided they meet the conditions specified in the Memorandum of Agreement. April 2009.
Web page

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Laboratory Certification Policies & Guidance

Rapid Determination of E. coli in Drinking Water under the Total Coliform Rule in Massachusetts
October 2009 (Revised from June 4, 2009 version)

MS Word 2.5 MB | PDF 1.6 MB

Certification for the Analysis of Enterococci (Presence/Absence) in Ground Water Source Samples - May 15, 2009

Web page

WES-08.001 - Laboratory Certification Office Policy on Chemistry Proficiency Testing - March 2008

cover letter: MS Word 38 KB | PDF 123 KB
policy: MS Word 45 KB | PDF 101 KB

WES-08.002 - Laboratory Certification Office Policy on Microbiology Proficiency Testing - March 2008

cover letter: MS Word 38 KB | PDF 128 KB
policy: MS Word 60 KB | PDF 129 KB

Memorandum on Revised Massachusetts Regulations for the Certification and Operation of Environmental Analysis Laboratories at 310 CMR 42.00 - March 3, 2008

MS Word 55 KB | PDF 45 KB

New England Certification Officers' Chemistry Checklists

PDF 77 KB

New England Certification Officers' Microbiology Checklist

PDF 161 KB

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Residuals & Biosolids Policies & Guidance

Blending Policy - Guidance Document 87-1: Utilization of Blended Sludge Compost

MS Word 26 KB

Composting Operations Within Zones of Contribution (Zone II) and Interim Well Head Protection Areas (Interim Zone II)

MS Word 29 KB | PDF 10 KB

Horticultural Use Policy

MS Word 22.5 KB

Hydrogeologic Evaluations - Guidelines

MS Word 58 KB | PDF 40 KB

Large Privately Owned Treatment Works - Minimum Contractual Requirements for Reuse or Disposal of Residuals

MS Word 51 KB | PDF 64 KB

Multi-Site/Single Ownership

MS Word 23 KB

Residuals Landfill Plan Submittal List

MS Word 49 KB | PDF 36 KB

Sludge Analysis Guidelines

MS Word 22 KB | PDF 8 KB

Sludge Compost Facilities - Minimum Technical Information Needs for Submittal of Plans and Specifications

MS Word 29 KB | PDF 8 KB

Sludge Disposal - Redundancy Requirements

MS Word 48.5 KB | PDF

Sludge Landfills - Closure/Post Closure Requirements

MS Word 77 KB | PDF 54 KB

Sludge Landfills - Design & Operation

MS Word 28.5 KB | PDF

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Seasonal Guidance

Guidance for Emergency repairs in Wetland Resource Areas or Buffer Zones, & Waterways

Guidance for homeowners and local officials in the event of a sudden or unforeseen emergency - September 2010
Web page

Deicing Chemical (Road Salt) Storage (Guidance DWSG97-1)

Web page

Rebuilding of Primary Coastal Dunes

MassDEP's Guidance for Homeowners & Conservation Commissions Relative to Storm Emergency Certification, May 2007
Web page

Snow Disposal Guidelines (Guidance BRPG01-01)

Web page

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Sewer Collection Systems

Infiltration/Inflow Analyses and Sewer System Evaluation Surveys Guidelines

Revised January 1993.
MS Word 775 KB | PDF 497 KB

Managing Infiltration and Inflow (I/I) in MWRA Community Sewer Systems (Policy BRP 09-01)

Revised September 24, 2010. In the MWRA service area, many of the systems are prone to inflow and infiltration (I/I) when high volumes of water go through the systems. This policy has been established to ensure that communities identify and remove I/I sources.
MS Word 61 KB | PDF 31 KB

Optimizing Operation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of sanitary sewer collection systems - Guidelines (Policy BRP/DWM/WpeP/G04-1)

Effective Date: March 24, 2004
Cover memo: MS Word 31 KB | PDF 15 KB | Guideline: PDF 1.67 MB

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
SRF Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)

2010 Capital Improvement Plan for Public Water Systems

The capital improvement planning (CIP) document can be utilized to identify and document capital projects for a public water system. It is designed to provoke a thought process for capital needs for the water works system that may not be apparent from existing engineering or evaluative documents. August 2010
MS Word 1 MB | PDF 579 KB

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Stormwater Policies & Guidance

Guidance for Emergency repairs in Wetland Resource Areas or Buffer Zones, & Waterways

Guidance for homeowners and local officials in the event of a sudden or unforeseen emergency - September 2010
Web page

Erosion and Sedimentation Control Guidelines: a guide for planners, designers, and municipal officials

Guidelines with images: Section 1: PDF 1.55 MB | Section 2: PDF 2 MB | Section 3: PDF 1 MB
Complete Guidelines, without images:
PDF 2.24 MB

Historic Properties Eligibility

Web page

Municipal Compliance Fact Sheet: Stormwater

What municipal officials need to know about stormwater management, regulation, and permitting.
Web page

NPDES definitions

Web page

Snow Disposal Guidance

This guidance, covering disposal site selection, site preparation and maintenance, and emergency snow disposal options, applies to public agencies and private businesses disposing of snow in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. March 2001.
Web page

Stormwater Best Management Practice Demonstration Tier II Protocol for Interstate Reciprocity

MS Word 355 KB | PDF 156 KB

Massachusetts Stormwater Handbook

Revised and updated in accordance with revisions to the Wetlands regulations, 310 CMR 10.00, and the Water Quality Regulations, 314 CMR 9.00, relating to stormwater. February 2008.

Volume 1, Chapter 1: The Stormwater Management Standards
MS Word 205 KB
Volume 1, Chapter 2: Legal Framework for Stormwater Management
MS Word 822 KB

Volume 2, Chapter 1: The Three Components of Stormwater Management
MS Word 310 KB
Volume 2, Chapter 2: Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs)
PDF 6.5 MB
Volume 2, Chapter 3: Checklist for Redevelopment Projects
MS Word 125 KB
Volume 2, Chapter 4: Proprietary Stormwater BMPs
MS Word 115 KB
Volume 2, Chapter 5: Miscellaneous Stormwater Topics
MS Word 56 KB
Volume 2 Appendix: Operating and Source Control BMPs
MS Word 106 KB

Volume 3, Chapter 1: Documenting Compliance
MS Word 1.3 MB
Stormwater Report: Checklist
MS Word 63 KB
TSS Removal Calculation Worksheet
MS Excel 39 KB

Changes to the Stormwater Management Standards

Article published in the Association of Massachusetts Wetland Scientists newsletter, January 15, 2008
MS Word 244 KB | PDF 125 KB

1996/97 Stormwater Management Policy & Handbook

The 1996/1997 Policy only applies to Wetlands NOIs and 401 applications filed prior to January 2, 2008.
Policy:
MS Word 69 KB | PDF 47 KB

Handbook:
Volume I: PDF 200 KB | Volume II: PDF 800 KB

Water Resource Management Planning

Guidance Document for communities, providing concise and integrated guidance for planning water resources infrastructure projects with funds from the SRF.
Web page

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Surface Water Policies & Guidance

Antidegradation Implementation Procedures

Pursuant to Surface Water Discharge Permit Program, 314 CMR 3.00, and Surface Water Quality Standards, 314 CMR 4.00. October 2009.
MS Word 82 KB | PDF 72 KB

Infiltration and Inflow (Interim Policy BRP01-1)

MS Word 36 KB

Mixing Zones Implementation Policy

MS Word 60 KB

Surface Water Discharges: Optimizing Operation, Maintenance, and Rehabilitation Of Sanitary Sewer Collection Systems Guideline

Cover memo: MS Word 31 KB | PDF 15 KB
Guideline: PDF 1.67 MB

Toxic Pollutant Control in Surface Waters - Implementation Policy

MS Word 64 KB

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Title 5/Septic Systems Guidance

Alternative to Percolation Testing: Guidance for System Upgrades

MS Word 64 KB | PDF 38 KB

Alternative Sewage Disposal System Deed Notice

Template for deed notice that an I/A system has been installed on a property. June 2010.
MS Word 50 KB | PDF 13 KB

Bedroom Count Deed Restriction

Template for a deed restriction limiting the number of bedrooms in a building served by a septic system.
MS Word 31 KB | PDF 16 KB

Cost Consideration for Maximum Feasible Compliance - 310 CMR 15.404 and 310 CMR 15.405

MS Word 42 KB | PDF 21 KB

Distribution Line Specification - Clarification

Web page

Emergency Planning and Preparedness Tips for WWTP and WTP Operators

Planning for and responding to emergencies at water and wastewater treatment plants
Web page

Grease Trap Advisory

Regulatory advisory on Title 5 and Plumbing Code regarding exterior grease traps. October 2011.
Web page

Impervious Barriers and Slope Stabilization - Design And Installation

MS Word 115 KB | PDF 35 KB

Inspection of Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems - Guidance

Web page

Nitrogen Loading and Aggregation of Flows - 310 CMR 15.216 Guidelines

Revised June 2009.
MS Word 214 KB | PDF 156 KB

Nitrogen Loading Computer Model

Web page

Pressure Distribution Guidance

MS Word 1.62 MB | PDF 228 KB

Guidance on Exemptions: Property Transfers Between Family Members

Guidance on System Inspections when property is being transferred between members of a family
MS Word 41 KB | PDF 26 KB

Recirculating Sand Filters (RSF) Design Guidance

MS Word 1.5 MB | PDF 104 KB
RSF Operation & Maintenance Inspection Form
Web page

Reducing Air Emissions from Diesel Construction Engines

Retrofit requirements for equipment used in wastewater and drinking water infrastructure projects.
Web page

Wastewater Facility Planning Guidance

MS Word 299 KB | PDF 228 KB

Water Resource Management Planning Guidance Document

This guidance is designed to explain the types of water management planning reports towns and communities can use when approaching their particular wastewater, drinking water, and stormwater issues. This document is not intended as a policy.
MS Word 138 KB | PDF 106 KB

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Title 5/Septic Systems Policies

Inspection and Sampling of Single Family Homes with Innovative/Alternative Title 5 Systems

Policy: Remedial and General Use Treatment Systems with design flows less than 2000 gpd
MS Word 51 KB | PDF 57 KB
Field Testing Protocol
MS Word 100 KB | PDF 24 KB
Inspection & Maintenance Form
Web page

Nitrogen Loading Limitations - System Upgrades in Sensitive Areas - Policy BRP/DWM/PeP-P99-5

MS Word 24 KB | PDF 24 KB

Title 5/Drinking Water Zone I Policy

MS Word 25.5 KB | PDF 16 KB

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Water Management Guidance

Integration of Drinking Water and Water Management Programs For Source Approval - Siting a New or Expanding Source of Public Water Supply

Part 1. Early Notice Guidance
Part 2. Water Conservation Plan
Part 3. Site Screening Worksheet
Part 4. Alternative Analysis
Web page

Model Water Use Restriction Bylaw/Ordinance

MassDEP developed the Model Outdoor Water Use Bylaw/Ordinance to help municipalities and water districts implement seasonal conservation of water. The Model Bylaw was revised in the spring of 2009 and was posted on April 29, 2009.

Cover letter:
Web page
Model Bylaw:
MS Word 94 KB | PDF 33 KB

Wetland Hydrology Monitoring Guidance for Water Withdrawal Permit Compliance

MS Word 47 KB | PDF 41 KB

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Water Management Policies

Flow Stress Map of Massachusetts Basins

Web page

Golf Course Water Use Policy (BRP/BWM/PeP-P00-5)

MS Word 61 KB | PDF 32 KB

Salt Water Withdrawal Policy

Web page

Water Resources Commission Policy on Water Needs Forecasts for Public Water Suppliers

Updated December 13, 2007.
MS Word 164 KB | PDF 127 KB

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Water Quality Policies & Guidance

Dredged Sediment Reuse and Disposal - Policy COMM-94-007

Web page

Risk Assessment Information

Also see "Technical Updates to the Guidance for Ecological Risk Assessment" below
Web page

Massachusetts Dairy Farm Milkhouse Wastewater Management Pilot Program

MassDEP and the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources have established a pilot program that allows dairy farms to discharge wastewater from processing dairy products to vegetated areas where plants will treat the wastewater before it reaches ground water. April 2009.
Web page

Technical Updates to the Guidance for Ecological Risk Assessment

Averaging Area for Benthic Invertebrate Assessments

Update to Section 9 of Guidance for Disposal Site Risk Characterization
MS Word 75 KB | PDF 35 KB

Assessment Endpoints for Benthic Invertebrates

Update to Section 9.3.2.1 of Guidance for Disposal Site Risk Characterization
MS Word 120 KB | PDF 75 KB

Assessing Risk of Harm to Benthic Invertebrates

Update to Section 9.4 of Guidance for Disposal Site Risk Characterization
MS Word 120 KB | PDF 75 KB

Freshwater Sediment Toxicity Tests

Update to Section 9 of Guidance for Disposal Site Risk Characterization
MS Word 115 KB | PDF 90 KB

Revised Sediment Screening Values

Update to Section 9 of Guidance for Disposal Site Risk Characterization
MS Word 85 KB | PDF 80 KB

Ecological Value of Surface Water Features

Update to Section 9 of Guidance for Disposal Site Risk Characterization
MS Word 95 KB | PDF 50 KB

Area-Based Screening for Sediment Contamination

Update to Section 9 of Guidance for Disposal Site Risk Characterization
MS Word 95 KB | PDF 50 KB

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Waterways Guidance

Guidance for Emergency repairs in Wetland Resource Areas or Buffer Zones, & Waterways

Guidance for homeowners and local officials in the event of a sudden or unforeseen emergency - September 2010
Web page

Evaluating State Harbor Lines

MS Word 37.5 KB

Evaluating Unauthorized Change in Use or Structural Alterations

MS Word 36.5 KB

Riparian Areas Factsheets from the Department of Fish & Game Riverways Program

Riverways Program Web site

Permitting Small Pile-Supported Docks and Piers - Guidance

PDF 788 KB | Errata Sheet PDF

Signage Specifications - September 2009

Web page

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Wetlands Guidance

Airport Vegetation Management GEIR

Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act's (MEPA) guidance for the development and review of airport vegetation removal projects in wetlands to comply with Federal Aviation Administration regulations. This link will open in a new window.
MassDOT Website

Guidance for Emergency repairs in Wetland Resource Areas or Buffer Zones, & Waterways

Guidance for homeowners and local officials in the event of a sudden or unforeseen emergency - September 2010
Web page

Aquatic Plant Management in Lakes and Ponds - Guidance

PDF 947 KB

Basic Building Code Revisions

Appendix 120.G has been revised in the 7th Edition of the Massachusetts Basic Building Code. Supporting documents that describe the revisions and who the changes affect can be found on the following web page.
Web page

Beach Nourishment: MassDEP's Guide to Best Management Practices for Projects in MA - March 2007

Overview of Guidance PDF 1.5 MB

Technical Attachments PDF 1.5 MB | MS Word (full version) 1.5 MB

Beaver and Muskrat-Related Activities - Guidance for Implementing G.L. c.131, s.80A

Updated June 2010 (revised fee and contact information).
MS Word 63 KB | PDF 44 KB

Beaver Control Near Public Water Supply Sources - Guidance

Web page

Bordering Vegetated Wetland Delineation Manual

PDF 3.8 MB
Field Data Form MS Word 46 KB

Buffer Manual, 2003

MS Word 3 MB | PDF 2.4 MB - Introduction through Chapter 2
MS Word 2 MB | PDF 1.4 MB - Chapter 3 through 5, Bibliography, Glossary, and Resources
MS Word 2 MB | PDF 2 MB - Appendices A-E

Dam Removal and the Wetlands Regulations

This document provides guidance for conservation commissions and the Department of Environmental Protection, as the permitting authorities, in the application of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and its regulations. MS Word 1 MB | PDF 929 KB

Enforcement Manual for Wetlands

PDF 2 MB

Erosion and Sedimentation Control Guidelines

Section 1: PDF 1.55 MB | Section 2: PDF 2 MB
Section 3: PDF 1 MB
Complete Guidelines, without images: PDF 2.24 MB

Eutrophication and Aquatic Plant Management Generic Environmental Impact Report (GEIR) - Dept. of Conservation and Recreation

DCR Website

Farming in Wetland Resource Areas Manual: 1996 Edition

MS Word 2 MB | PDF 2.7 MB

Hydrology Handbook for Conservation Commissioners

PDF 2.6 MB

Inland Wetland Replication Guidelines (310 CMR 10.55) (Guidance BRP/DWM/WetG02-2)

MS Word 338 KB | PDF

Massachusetts Wildlife Habitat Protection Guidance for Inland Wetlands

PDF 2 MB

Municipal Compliance Fact Sheet: Wetlands

What municipal officials need to know about wetlands protection.
Web page

Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Forms

Appendices A and B of the Wildlife Habitat Protection Guidance, provided here as fillable forms.
Simplified Habitat Evaluation Form (Appendix A of the Guidance): MS Word 122 KB | PDF 21 KB
Detailed Habitat Evaluation Form (Appendix B of the Guidance): MS Word 238 KB | PDF 42 KB

Stream Crossing Standards

Updated March 2011, from the US Army Corps of Engineers.
PDF 236 KB

National Climate Data Center Precipitation Frequency Atlas

NOAA Website

West Nile Virus Application of Pesticides to Wetlands Resource Areas and Buffer Zones, and Public Water Systems (Guidance BRPG01-02)

MS Word 62 KB

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Water, Wastewater & Wetlands: Policies & Guidance Documents
Wetlands Policies

85-2: Definition of Isolated Land Subject to Flooding Wetlands, Interpretation of 310 CMR 10.57(2)(b)

Web page

85-4: Amending an Order of Conditions

Web page

86-1: Presumptions for Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems That Meet Title 5 or More Stringent Local Board of Health Requirements

Web page

87-1: Expedited Review of License, Approval, or Permit Applications

Web page

88-2: Access Roadways or Driveways

Web page

88-3: Multiple Notice of Intent Filings

Web page

90-2: Determining Adverse Impacts to Rare Species Habitat

Web page

91-1: Project Plan Changes

Web page

91-2: Salt ponds

Web page

92-1: Definition and Delineation Criteria for Coastal Bank

Web page

95-1: Bordering Vegetated Wetland Delineation Criteria and Methodology

Web page

06-1: Procedures for Coordinated Review under the Endangered Species and Wetlands Protection Regulations for State-Listed Wildlife in Wetlands

Web page

08-1: Consultant Fee Policy

Web page

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