Helpful Hints
The internet has a lot of information! I’ve found several places for sound advice and useful information. See below for a few “departments”. Also, please note that specific information and rules on several topics is available here:
Caring for Septic System
Helpful hints to keep your system working for years to come
Planting on top of drainfield
Want options other than grass over your drainfield? Here are some helpful suggestions: http://pubs.ext.vt.edu/426/426-617/426-617_pdf.pdf
Types of failure
Photos and explanations for various asphalt failure conditions:
http://www.sealandcoat.com/common_asphalt_and_pavement_problems/index.php
Typical Asphalt Pavement Section
What’s under the black? Here’s a sketch of the layers you drive on: http://www.civil.iitb.ac.in/tvm/1100_LnTse/401_lnTse/plain/img2.gif
Most construction projects are subject to one, or more, environmental regulations. Everything we do to the earth has downstream impact. Here is some useful information for common project types.
Septic Systems
About ⅓ of Massachusetts homes rely on a septic system to treat their wastewater and protect our groundwater. Whether you are a residence, commercial site, or institution, you may need to consider what happens after you flush.
Title 5 (310 CMR 15 Massachusetts Septic System Regulations)
The primary regulations covering septic systems in Massachusetts. Note that every town can have their own local rules. Be sure to check with your local health department, as local rules supercede state requirements.
http://www.mass.gov/eea/
FAQ for Septic Systems
Lot’s of basic questions answered. I’m happy to answer your specific questions. Every site is unique! http://www.mass.gov/eea/
Title 5 Inspection for Selling or Buying a Home
Details on rule applying to septic systems for home sellers and buyers.
http://www.mass.gov/eea/
Financial Aid?
In some cases, MA homeowners can get financial support from the state. Don’t forget to check with your bank – a new system can improve property value. Title 5 / Septic Systems: Financial Assistance Opportunities for System Owners
Financing FAQ: Title 5 & Septic System Frequently Asked Questions: Financing
If you are a single-family homeowner with “regular” residential plans, then no stormwater regulations apply to you (though, you can always take steps to improve what’s happening downstream of you). However, if you are non-residential, or more than a single family situation, then basic regulations apply to your site. Note that every town can have their own local rules. Be sure to check with your local conservation commission as local rules supercede state requirements.
Stormwater Management
The basic rules to consider: Massachusetts Stormwater Handbook
http://www.mass.gov/dep/water/laws/v1c1.doc
Other DEP Stormwater Guidelines
http://www.mass.gov/dep/water/laws/policies.htm#storm
Snow Disposal
Snow contains sand, salt, trash, and other pollutants that affect the quality of our environment. Here are best practice guidelines for plowing.
http://www.mass.gov/dep/water/laws/snowdisp.htm
Massachusetts is blessed to have thousands of wetlands throughout the commonwealth. Wetlands play an extremely important role in buffering human activities from subtle and direct impact on the environment. As they are such an important resource, they are heavily regulated. Is there open water, marshy land, or seasonally moist land within 100 feet (or less) of your work? If so, you will need to pay attention to these features and likely have to file a Notice of Intent with your local conservation commission.
Help! I have wetlands on or near my project site. What basics do i need to know?
The primary regulations on wetlands in Massachusetts. Note that every town can have their own local rules. Be sure to check with your local conservation commission, as local rules supercede state requirements.
Main Regulations: http://www.mass.gov/dep/service/regulations/310cmr10a.pdf
Appendix/Preface: http://www.mass.gov/dep/service/regulations/310cmr10b.pdf
Environmentally Friendly Lawn Care & Landscaping
Information on how your yard impacts the environment and how to reduce that impact.
http://www.mass.gov/dep/water/resources/lawn.htm
Massachusetts Department of Transportation (f.k.a. MassHighway)
ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)
Rules for structures and sites that are generally open to the public. http://www.ada.gov/regs2010/2010ADAStandards/2010ADAstandards.htm
Though not official, Massachusetts has generally adopted the International Building Code as published by the International Code Council.
https://www.mass.gov/massachusetts-state-building-code-780-cmr
