Federal Stormwater Permits
These permits are:
- The Construction General Permit: for construction projects disturbing one or more acres.
- The Multi-Sector General Permit: to operate industrial facilities in Massachusetts.
- The Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) General Permit: for most cities and towns in Massachusetts, to operate municipal stormwater systems. Find more information in the Municipal Compliance Stormwater Fact Sheet.
MassDEP has compiled materials to assist affected municipalities in complying with the MS4 permit; see "Stormwater Outreach Materials to Help Towns Comply with the MS4 Permit" and the documents below.
Additional Resources
State Stormwater Standards and Permits
Massachusetts administers stormwater standards through provisions of the Wetlands Protection regulations, 310 CMR 10.00.
Depending on their type and jurisdiction, projects that have a stormwater-management component may fall under:
- Wetlands Notices of Intent (WPA Form 3): filed with the local Conservation Commission for projects in wetland areas
- Surface Water Discharge General Permit (WM 15): for Construction General Permits or Multi-Sector General Permits in Outstanding Resource Waters.
Additional Resources
Local Stormwater Permitting
Cities and towns may have local stormwater and/or wetlands bylaws; contact your city or town for guidance.
Local officials seeking guidance on developing stormwater controls are encouraged to visit the "Think Blue Massachusetts" website for information and resources.
Stormwater Policies & Guidance
Complete Erosion and Sedimentation Control Guidelines: a Guide for Planners, Designers, and Municipal Officials
Best management practices for controlling erosion and sedimentation.
The Massachusetts Stormwater Handbook
Last revised in February 2008.
Wetlands Program Method to Convert Stormwater Water Quality Volume to Peak Flow Rate
A standardized conversion method for this calculation.
Water Resource Management Planning Guidance Document
This guidance is intended to explain the types of water management planning reports towns and communities can use when approaching their particular wastewater, drinking water and stormwater issues.