The City of Boston recently adopted a new wetlands ordinance that will protect wetland areas and direct the city’s conservation commission to consider climate change when it evaluates project proposals.
The Local Wetlands Ordinance is stricter than statewide standards. In the past, the Conservation Commission followed only the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, which requires that any work proposed in wetlands or within 100 feet of one be reviewed.
The new ordinance protects isolated vegetated wetlands, vernal pools, and vernal pool habitat. It also establishes a waterfront area buffer zone, and allows for the implementation of the Mayor’s Resilient Boston Harbor Plan. The commission may develop standards for projects in the floodplain to ensure future residents are protected from flooding, and the commission must now consider sea level rise and climate resiliency in reviewing applications and in developing performance standards.
In addition, the new law allows for the creation of Flood Resilience Zones expected to be aligned with the Boston Planning and Development Agency’s flood overlay district. Proposals in these zones will require a permit from the conservation commission.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Sep 17, 2019
Zero energy buildings can be constructed with no added upfront cost
ROI can be realized in as little as one year.
Codes and Standards | Sep 13, 2019
Researchers use U. of Arkansas buildings as testbed for CLT panels
Investigation could influence future use of the materials.
Codes and Standards | Sep 13, 2019
At least 30 U.S. cities have adopted stricter building energy codes since 2017
Some followed their states in implementing more robust standards.
Codes and Standards | Sep 12, 2019
Illinois law sets maximum retainage on private projects
The change is expected to give contractors bigger checks earlier in project timeline.
Codes and Standards | Sep 10, 2019
Retreat may be the best option for some coastal communities in face of sea level rise
A new study makes the case for relocating in a "strategic, managed" manner.
Codes and Standards | Sep 9, 2019
Free app calculates maximum allowable heights and areas for buildings
A free app that calculates the maximum allowable heights and areas for buildings of various occupancy classifications and types of construction has been released.
Codes and Standards | Sep 6, 2019
Standard for assessing frame deflection using one component polyurethane foams updated
The standard offers guidance when installing fenestration products.
Codes and Standards | Aug 29, 2019
The high cost of gridlock: $166 billion per year
Growing economy means more jobs, more cars, more hours stuck in traffic.
Codes and Standards | Aug 29, 2019
Industry leaders ask for government help as trades shortage worsens
AGC asks for more funding for education and increased immigration to fill gaps.
Codes and Standards | Aug 29, 2019
Code-conforming wood design guide available
The guide summarizes provisions for the use of wood and wood products in the 2018 IBC.
