Boston Conservation Commission

ADDRESS: Boston Environment Department City Hall, Room 805,  Boston  MA  02201
PHONE: (617) 635-3850
FAX:
E-MAIL: environment@ci.boston.ma.us
WEBSITE:

DESCRIPTION: The Boston Conservation Commission protects and preserves open space and other natural areas of the city including wetlands. The BCC administers the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L.c131s.40), the Massachusetts Rivers Protection Act (HB s. 18.26), and the Conservation Commission Act (HB s. 18.9)

The BCC is comprised of seven commissioners and an executive secretary appointed by the Mayor.

The commission administers the Commonwealth's Wetlands Regulations by determining wetland boundaries; reviewing the permitting projects proposed in or near wetlands and defined buffer areas; and by placing conditions on development projects that affect wetlands.

Work within 100 feet of a wetland or flood plain area is under the jurisdiction of the BCC and requires a permit. The BCC holds public hearings to review permit applications on the first and third Wednesday of each month. Applications must be submitted a minimum of two weeks prior to the Commission hearing so that we may notify the public (http://www.cityofboston.com/environment/conservation.asp).