Key Actions
Where to apply for permits and approvals
The majority of MassDEP permit applications must be filed online through the EEA ePlace permitting portal. For more information, such as:
- how to create an account and login;
- permits that can be submitted online available applications;
- how to pay online; and
- general questions regarding online submittals,
visit the Energy and Environmental Affairs ePlace Portal web page.
For questions on what permit(s) may be required, what information should be submitted in a permit application, or other questions pertaining to application content, please first review the specific permit application webpage for the applicable permit information. These webpages provide specific program resource contact information and instructions. Also listed below are contacts if the information you are looking for is not available on MassDEP’s permitting web pages.
MassDEP Fast Track Permitting
Fast Track Permitting incorporates a set of sound environmental policies and procedures that promote smart growth and economic development across the Commonwealth. It helps businesses get answers faster while ensuring protection of our natural resources.
Types of Fast Track projects include:
- Biotech
- Energy
- Transit-oriented development
- Brownfield redevelopment
- Solid waste recycling facilities
- Smart growth projects
How It Works
In order to be authorized for Fast Track, project proposals are submitted to your MassDEP Regional Office. The Regional Director will work with the Commissioner's Office to develop the necessary project agreement.
Once an agreement is signed, the project applicant can begin working with the MassDEP project manager assigned to the project.
Benefits
Fast Track guarantees:
- Expedited administrative and technical reviews for all eligible projects.
- Negotiated permit schedules and fees.
- A single point of contact through the entire permitting process.
- Protection of natural resources and promotion of smart growth.
Costs involved
The cost of Fast Tracking a project is determined by the number and complexity of the permits. This includes review determinations, stakeholder communications and other oversight activities. Project proponents will work with the MassDEP project manager to draft a memorandum of agreement (MOA) outlining the deliverables and a fee schedule.
Project qualifications
Please review the Project Requirements of Section 40 Overview and Project Requirements on the next page.
Projects must meet one or more of the following criteria to be eligible for Fast Track:
- Projects that are consistent with sustainable development principles and promote smart growth;
- Projects determined by the Commissioner to be of significant environmental interest to the Commonwealth; and
- Projects with multi-permit complexity
DEP3 Guarantee: Speedy Delivery
More than 15 years ago, MassDEP initiated a guarantee: a timely decision on your environmental permit or your money back.
How do I pay my application fee?
You pay your permit application fee when applying for the permit through the EEA ePlace Portal.
The following entities are exempt from the payment of application fees: cities, towns, counties, districts, municipal housing authorities, and federally recognized Indian tribe housing authorities. State agencies are exempt from payment only when the application fee is $100 or less.
How long will it take MassDEP to act on my application?
MassDEP has category-specific timelines for acting on the applications it receives for permits, licenses, plan approvals, registrations, determinations and other approvals. See the timeline for your category in MassDEP Permit Timelines and Fees which is a summary of 310 CMR 4.00 timeliness and fees. This document also provides details on any annual fees required for any permits.
It is in your best interest to submit an accurate and complete application. If your application has administrative or technical deficiencies, a second review period will be required in each case, thereby extending the timeline for a final decision. Timely response to a deficiency statement will ensure a timely response by MassDEP.
Should you have questions or need help before you apply, please contact our nearest regional service center. Find Your Region
Can review of a permit application be expedited?
Yes, projects that qualify for the Fast Track program can negotiate expedited permit reviews.
When does the timeline begin?
The clock starts ticking the day after MassDEP is in receipt of your complete application and payment. The timeline will be suspended if there is a failure of payment (e.g. the check you submitted in payment of the fee is returned for insufficient funds) after that date. See MassDEP Permit Timelines and Fees
What if MassDEP cannot meet or beat the timeline?
If the timeline expires before MassDEP acts on your application, the application is eligible for a refund while the agency continues reviewing the process. Your refund must be requested in writing. Your timeline will not affect MassDEP's decision on your application, nor will your application be approved automatically if the agency fails to meet that timeline. The timeline may be affected by provisions in the regulations including but not limited to failure of payment, actions of other government agencies, and judicial and enforcement proceedings. MassDEP may be able to finish the application review ahead of schedule if your application is complete. MassDEP's money-back guarantee is intended to demonstrate the agency's good-faith efforts to make it easier for you to play by the rules without making the rules themselves less stringent.