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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