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Waterways Program (Chapter 91)

Learn about the Massachusetts Public Waterfront Act, the oldest waterways law in the nation.

MassDEP administers the regulatory provisions of the Massachusetts Public Waterfront Act (the oldest waterways law in the United States), commonly called "Chapter 91". The program issues licenses for projects in waterways and ensures that projects meet public-access requirements.

First time? Start here.

Guide:
Waterways Permitting - Frequently Asked Questions 

What would you like to do?

Top tasks

New Grant Opportunity: Boston Harbor Water Transportation Fund  WW 24: General License Certification  All Waterways Forms 

What you need to know

Overview of Chapter 91  Waterways Permitting - Frequently Asked Questions  310 CMR 9.00: The Massachusetts Waterways Regulation  All Waterways Laws, Regulations, and Guidance  Waterways File Review & Research  Chapter 91 General Licenses Filed with Registries of Deeds  Chapter 91 Research and Resources  Waterways Program: Related Links 
Open PDF file, 180.05 KB, for Chapter 91 Information Access and Communications (PDF 180.05 KB)
Open PDF file, 476.69 KB, for Chapter 91 Quick Reference Guide (PDF 476.69 KB)

Contact Information

Online

Email MassDEP Waterways Program at DEP.Waterways@mass.gov

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