310 CMR 9.57
Approved Municipal Harbor Plans
(1) The following Municipal Harbor Plans are Approved Municipal Harbor Plans:
(a) East Boston Waterfront District Municipal Harbor Plan (July 15, 2002, as renewed and
amended on December 17, 2008, March 4, 2009, and August 2, 2012);
(b) Fort Point Downtown (Boston) Municipal Harbor Plan Phase I (October 10, 2002, as
renewed on February 12, 2013);
(c) Fort Point Downtown (Boston) Municipal Harbor Plan Phase II (March 8, 2004, as
renewed on April 9, 2014);
(d) Harborpark (Boston) Plan (May 22, 1991, as renewed and amended on July 29, 1999,
October 12, 2006, and April 4, 2008);
(e) South Boston Waterfront District Municipal Harbor Plan (December 6, 2000, as
renewed and amended on December 31, 2002, October 22, 2009, and December 21, 2016);
(f) Cohasset Municipal Harbor Plan (November 25, 2020);
(g) Central Waterfront (Everett) Municipal Harbor Plan (February 10, 2014);
(h) Gloucester Municipal Harbor Plan and DPA Master Plan (July 6, 1999, as renewed and
amended on December 11, 2009 and December 19, 2014);
(i) Lynn Municipal Harbor Plan and DPA Master Plan (June 28, 2010, as renewed and
amended on November 25, 2020);
(j) Nantucket and Madaket Municipal Harbor Plan (December 21, 2009);
(k) New Bedford Fairhaven Municipal Harbor Plan and DPA Master Plan (September 24,
2002, as renewed and amended on June 14, 2010);
(l) Provincetown Harbor Management Plan (May 4, 1999, as renewed and amended on
February 29, 2012 and April 10, 2019);
(m) Salem Municipal Harbor Plan and DPA Master Plan (June 24, 2008);
(n) Hull Harbor Plan (February 14, 2000);
(o) South Coastal Harbor (Chatham) Management Plan (August 19, 1994, as renewed on
July 23, 1999, October 21, 2005, and May 12, 2015);
(p) Edgartown Municipal Harbor Plan (October 2, 1997, as renewed on April 30, 2003); and
(q) Chelsea Municipal Harbor Plan and Designated Port Area Master Plan (April 1, 2022).
(2) Approved Substitute Provisions: Substitute Standards, Offsets, Amplifications, and Other
Provisions.
(a) East Boston Waterfront District Municipal Harbor Plan, (July 15, 2002, as renewed and
amended on December 17, 2008, March 4, 2009, and August 2, 2012).
1. Table 1. Substitute Standards and Offsetting Measures.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved
Offsetting
Measures
Clippership Wharf (2002)
310 CMR 9.51(3): Conservation of Capacity
for Water-dependent Use (Location of
Facilities of Private Tenancy (“FPT”).
“nonwater-dependent
Facilities of Private
Tenancy shall not be
located on any pile-
supported structures on
flowed tidelands, nor at
the ground level of any
filled tidelands within 100
feet of the project
shoreline.”
FPTs may occupy a
portion of the ground
floors of nonwater-
dependent structures
located on private
tidelands within 100 feet
of the project shoreline
(measured from the high
water shoreline) and on
Commonwealth tidelands,
provided that the amount
of Facility of Public
Accommodation (“FPA”)
space is greater than or
equal to amount of
interior space where FPT
would otherwise be
prohibited; all ground
floor FPTs seaward of
Marginal Street that
would otherwise be for
FPAs is for artist
live/work space; and does
not exceed 12,500 SF of
area that would be
otherwise required to be
FPA.
1. A minimum of
6,000 SF of
additional
WDUZ on the
western side of
the site with
associated
outdoor
programming;
offset at 1:2 ratio
(FPT:WDUZ).
2. Arts-related
ground floor
FPA space at the
harbor-most end
of building on
westerly wharf of
no less than
2,000 SF at no
cost for rental or
fit-out for life of
the c. 91 license
(1:1 ratio).
3. 1,000 SF of
FPA space in
buildings facing
water on western
side of site on
Private Tidelands
(1:1 ratio).
4. 1,000 SF
environmental/ar
ts education FPA
use on western
side of project at
no cost for rental
and fit-out for
license term (1:1
ratio FPT:FPA).
5. 1,000 SF of
community FPA
space at no cost
for rental or fit-
out for license
term (1:1 ratio on
western side, 1:2
ratio -FPT:FPA
elsewhere)
6. On Private
Tidelands, 5,000
SF of FPA space
in buildings
facing Lewis
Mall (1:2 ratio)
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved
Offsetting
Measures
Clippership Wharf (2002) (continued)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use (Water-
dependent use zone)
New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use, and
parking facilities at or
above grade for any use,
shall not be located within
a water-dependent use
zone; Plan may specify
alternative setback
distances and other
requirements which
ensure that new buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use are not constructed
immediately adjacent to a
project shoreline, in order
that sufficient space along
the water's edge will be
devoted exclusively to
water-dependent activity
and public access.
Reconfigured WDUZ,
provided no loss of area,
measured from the project
shoreline as defined by
the high-water mark along
upland shorelines and
filled wharves. Public
parking for up to two
hours allowed in WDUZ
on the western pier
parallel to and landward
of the public way to
encourage public use of
the site.
Minimum width of 100
feet along the high water
mark except for area
immediately southwest of
the Boston Housing
Authority (“BRA”)
Heritage Apartments
where it shall be a
minimum of 25 feet; a
minimum of 100 feet from
high water mark along the
solid fill wharf ends;
minimum setbacks of 45
feet on the western side of
the project, 40 feet on the
eastern side of the
westerly wharf, and 30
feet on the western side of
the easterly wharf.
N/A
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-Dependent Use (Building
height)
New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use shall not
exceed 55 feet in height if
located over the water or
within 100 feet landward
of the high water mark; at
greater landward
distances, the height of
such buildings shall not
exceed 55 feet plus ½ foot
for every additional foot
of separation from the
high water mark.
All buildings located
along Sumner Street and
within 100 feet of the high
water mark at the wharf
ends shall be no taller
than 65 feet in height;
landward of the wharf
ends building height(s)
may increase at the ratio
of one vertical foot for
every two additional feet
from the 100 foot line up
to a maximum 80 feet for
the entire site, provided
all buildings shall be set
back a minimum of 100
feet from the high water
mark along the solid fill
wharf ends, all buildings
shall have minimum
setbacks of 45 feet on the
western side of the
project, 40 feet on the
eastern side of the
westerly wharf, and 30
feet on the western side of
the easterly wharf. To
accommodate greater
floor-to-ceiling
dimensions in FPAs,
buildings may be up to 86
feet, provided that Net
New Shadow (“NNS”) is
offset.
N/A
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved
Offsetting
Measures
Hodge Boiler Works (2002)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(b):
Conservation of Capacity for Water-
Dependent Use (Location of facilities of
private tenancy and facilities of public
accommodation)
and
310 CMR 9.53(2)(c): Activation of
Commonwealth Tidelands for Public Use
(Interior facilities of public accommodation)
“nonwater-dependent
Facilities of Private
Tenancy shall not be
located on any pile-
supported structures on
flowed tidelands, nor at the
ground level of any filled
tidelands within 100 feet of
the project shoreline.”
FPTs may occupy a
portion of the ground
floor of non-water-
dependent structures
located within 100 feet of
the project shoreline,
provided that the total
area of ground floor FPA
space is greater or equal
to the amount of interior
space where FPT would
otherwise be prohibited;
at least 50% of the FPA
SF must be at the ground
level of any non-water-
dependent use structure
located within 100 feet of
the project shoreline
adjacent to LoPresti Park;
and no FPA SF is used to
offset the SF for other
non-water-dependent use
structures within 100 feet
of the project shoreline.
N/A
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use (Water-
dependent use zone)
“new or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use, and parking
facilities at or above grade
for any use,
shall not be located within
a water-dependent use
zone…”
Reconfigured WDUZ,
provided no loss of area,
measured from the project
shoreline as defined by
the high-water mark along
upland shorelines and
filled wharves. Minimum
setback is 75 feet except
for the shoreline corner in
common with LoPresti
Park, where it may be 40
feet and, in order to
accommodate a non-
water-dependent use
public activity structure at
the London Street
extension, 25 feet.
N/A
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-Dependent Use (Building
height)
New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use shall not
exceed 55 feet in height if
located over the water or
within 100 feet landward
of the high water mark; at
greater landward
distances, the height of
such buildings shall not
exceed 55 feet plus ½ foot
for every additional foot
of separation from the
high water mark.
All buildings located
along Sumner Street and
within 100 feet of the high
water mark at the wharf
ends shall be no taller
than 65 feet in height;
landward of this line,
building height(s) may
increase at the ratio of one
vertical foot for every two
additional feet from the
100 foot line up to a
maximum 80 feet for the
entire site, provided all
buildings shall be set back
a minimum of 100 feet
from the high water mark
except at the corner
shared with LoPresti Park,
where the setback may be
40 feet. To accommodate
greater floor-to-ceiling
dimensions in FPAs,
buildings may be up to 86
feet, provided that NNS is
offset.
N/A
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved
Offsetting
Measures
Plan-wide (2002)
310 CMR 9.52(1)(b)1.: Utilization of
Shoreline for Water-Dependent Purposes
(Pedestrian access network)
“…walkways and related
facilities along the entire
length of the Water-
Dependent Use Zone;
wherever feasible, such
walkways shall be adjacent
to the project shoreline and,
except as otherwise
provided in a municipal
harbor plan, shall be no less
than ten feet in width…”
At a minimum, the
pedestrian access network
shall be no less than 12
feet wide, with 10 feet
clear of an obstruction.
N/A
6-26 New Street (2008)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(b):
Conservation of Capacity for Water-
Dependent Use (Location of facilities of
private tenancy and facilities of public
accommodation)
“ n o n wa t e r - d e p e n d e n t
Facilities of Private Tenancy
shall not be located on any
pile-supported structures on
flowed tidelands, nor at the
ground level of any filled
tidelands within 100 feet of
the project shoreline.”
Up to approximately
1,200 square feet of
interior and exterior non-
water dependent Facilities
of Private Tenancy will be
allowed to be located
within 100 feet of the
project shoreline, but not
less than 70 feet from the
project shoreline.
At
least
an
equivalent area of
Facilities
of
P
u
b
l
i
c
Accommodation
(FPA) will be
provided adjacent
to other FPA
space on the site,
expanding
the
location of FPAs
beyond 100 feet
of the project
shoreline.
310 CMR 9.52(1)(b)1.: Utilization of
Shoreline for Water-Dependent Purposes
(Pedestrian access network)
“…walkways and related
facilities along the entire
length of the Water-
Dependent Use Zone;
wherever feasible, such
walkways shall be adjacent
to the project shoreline and,
except as otherwise
provided in a municipal
harbor plan, shall be no less
than ten feet in width…”
The minimum width will
be widened to 12 feet (10
feet
clear).
These
enhancements shall replace
the existing standard of 10
feet.
N/A
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-Dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded buildings
for nonwater-dependent use
shall not exceed 55 feet in
height if located over the
water or within 100 feet
landward of the high water
mark; at greater landward
distances, the height of such
buildings shall not exceed 55
feet plus ½ foot for every
additional foot of separation
from the high water mark.
Allow non water-
dependent buildings up to
a height of 70 feet within
100 feet landward of the
high-water mark in
locations as generally
indicated in the plans
diagrams. Appurtenant to
the nine-story building
redevelopment project,
façade treatments,
fenestration, and exterior
or enclosed balconies will
be allowed up to the top
of the existing structure
and shall be considered
part of the building
footprint.
N/A
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved
Offsetting
Measures
102-148 Border Street (2009) (continued)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(b):
Conservation of Capacity for Water-
Dependent Use (Location of facilities of
private tenancy and facilities of public
accommodation)
“nonwater-dependent
Facilities of Private Tenancy
shall not be located on any
pile-supported structures on
flowed tidelands, nor at the
ground level of any filled
tidelands within 100 feet of
the project shoreline.”
“nonwater-dependent
Facilities of Private
Tenancy shall not be
located on any pile-
supported structures on
flowed tidelands, nor at
the ground level of any
filled tidelands within 100
feet of the project
shoreline.”
A minimum of
25% of the
ground floor
(excluding upper
floor accessory
uses) shall be
devoted to
Facilities of
Public
Accommodation,
including but not
limited to:
gallery, archway,
exhibition space,
teaching space,
maritime history
interpretive
exhibit space,
community
meeting room,
and community
center. These
facilities will be
located within
the ground floor
to effectively
promote public
use and
enjoyment of the
project site. The
facilities will be
managed and
programmed to
establish the
project as a year-
round locus of
public activity.
The McKay
Community
Gallery will be
provided in
accordance with
the Plan, built-
out and rent-free
for the license
term and the
public archway
shall be provided
in accordance
with the Plan.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved
Offsetting
Measures
102-148 Border Street (2009) (continued)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use (Water-
dependent use zone)
“new or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use, and
parking facilities at or
above grade for any use,
shall not be located within
a water-dependent use
zone…”
A reconfigured WDUZ
will be established that
will allow a minimum
setback from the project
shoreline of 25 feet for
buildings containing
nonwater-dependent uses,
as shown in the plans and
diagrams in the Plan,
while maintaining at least
the same overall area
(approximately
22,806sf) as the standard
requirement.
The reconfigured
WDUZ will
provide setbacks
along the
waterfront and
Harborwalk and
setbacks in
different areas of
the site that are
contiguous to the
DPA and the
proposed historic
maritime
interpretive area.
There shall be no
loss of WDUZ
area.
310 CMR 9.52(1)(b)1.: Utilization of
Shoreline for Water-Dependent Purposes
(Pedestrian access network)
“…walkways and related
facilities along the entire
length of the Water-
Dependent Use Zone;
wherever feasible, such
walkways shall be
adjacent to the project
shoreline and, except as
otherwise provided in a
municipal harbor plan,
shall be no less than ten
feet in width…”
At a minimum, the
pedestrian access network
shall be no less than 12
feet wide, with 10 feet
clear of an obstruction.
N/A
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-Dependent Use (Building
height)
New or expanded buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use shall not exceed 55 feet
in height if located over the
water or within 100 feet
landward of the high water
mark; at greater landward
distances, the height of
such buildings shall not
exceed 55 feet plus ½ foot
for every additional foot of
separation from the high
water mark.
The height of new or
expanded buildings for
non-water-dependent uses
shall not exceed 85 feet as
shown in the Plan’s
massing and building
diagrams.
Provisions of at
least 2,201 SF of
open space in
addition to the
standard
requirement (1:2
open space-
shadow ratio)
that shall include
paved pedestrian
access, amenities
such as benches
and special
landscaping
features, and
public
recreational
features to
promote public
access and use.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved
Offsetting
Measures
125 Sumner Street (2009)
310 CMR 9.53(2)(c): Activation of
Commonwealth Tidelands for Public Use
(Interior facilities of public accommodation)
“the project shall include
interior space to facilities
of public accommodation
other than public parking,
with special consideration
given to facilities that
enhance the destination
value of the waterfront by
serving significant
community needs…such
space shall be at least
equal in amount to the
square footage of all
Commonwealth tidelands
on the project site within
the footprint of buildings
containing nonwater-
dependent facilities of
private tenancy…”
Permit facilities of private
tenancy to occupy 75% of
the ground floor
(excluding upper floor
accessory uses), provided
that the site remains under
the ownership or control
of the Boston Housing
Authority with the
primary purpose to
provide affordable
housing to City residents.
A minimum of
25% of the
ground floor
(excluding upper
floor accessory
uses) shall be
devoted to
facilities of
public
accommodate
including, but not
limited to:
gallery,
exhibition space,
maritime history
interpretive
exhibit space,
community
meeting room,
and community
center. These
facilities will be
located within
the ground floor
to effectively
promote public
use and
enjoyment of the
project site. The
facilities will be
managed and
programmed to
establish the
project site as a
year-round locus
of public activity.
2. Table 2: Summary of Amplifications
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Amplification
Implementation
Mechanism
6-26 New Street (2008)
310 CMR 9.53(2)(b): Activation of
Commonwealth Tidelands for Public
Use (Exterior open space for public
recreation)
"the project shall include
exterior open space for
active or passive
recreation, examples of
which are parks, plazas
and observation areas;
such open spaces shall be
located at or near the
water to the maximum
reasonable extent…"
The location of the open
space features that serve
to activate the public
open space on the site
may be distributed within
both Commonwealth and
private tidelands in a
manner that will enhance
interest, access, and use.
Additional activation of
the Harborwalk and
waterfront open space
will be provided through
the use of historic
interpretive elements and
displays. The particular
type and location of
exhibits will be
appropriate to this
particular location in the
harbor and will follow
guidance provided in
Section 9 and Appendix 1
of the Plan Amendment.
Plan Amendment
Appendix 1, Section 9
3. Table 3: Summary of Planning Principles and Priorities.
Planning Principle/Priority
Decision Standard
Implementation
Mechanism
Notes
6-26 New Street (2008)
Preserve and enhance capacity of DPA
for Water-dependent industrial use
(”WDIU”)
Preserve and enhance
capacity of DPA for
WDIU
Removal or restoration of
all on-site piles (both DPA
and non-DPA watersheet
a r e a s ) ;
s i t e - w i d e
reconstruction
of
all
deteriorated sections of the
bulkhead; and inclusion of
a permanent vehicular
access route from New or
Sumner Street to the DPA
and WDUZ; provision of
buffer
between
uses;
provision of language in
lease forms or deeds
regarding existence of
WDIU; docking facility for
w a t e r
t a x i ;
s i t e
improvements for DPA
area to be accessible.
N/A
Planning Principle/Priority
Decision Standard
Implementation
Mechanism
Notes
102-148 Border Street (2009)
Preserve and enhance capacity of DPA
for WDIU
Preserve and enhance
capacity of DPA for
WDIU
Additionally, DPA
improvements at the site
will
enhance
water-
dependent uses:
! Removal of dilapidated
pile fields
! Restoration of seawalls
and adjacent surfaces
!
R e g r a d i n g
a n d
remediation of site
! Language in lease forms
with notice of nearby
WDIU
! Use of appropriate
construction materials for
the non-water dependent
(“non-WD”) building to
mitigate adverse impacts of
neighboring WDIU
! Provision of buffer land
uses along the ground floor
of the non-WD building
(b) Fort Point Downtown (Boston) Waterfront Municipal Harbor Plan Phase 1 (October 10,
2002, as renewed on February 12, 2013).
1. Table 1. Substitute Standards and Offsetting Measures.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
500 Atlantic Avenue (2002)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e):
Conservation of Capacity
for Water-Dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded
buildings for
nonwater-dependent use
shall not exceed 55 feet in
height if located over the
water or within 100 feet
landward of the high
water mark; at greater
landward distances, the
height of such buildings
shall not exceed 55 feet
plus ½ foot for every
additional foot of
separation from the high
water mark.
Allows building heights
up to 55 feet in the Height
Zone 1 (0 to 35 feet from
the high water mark); 63
feet in Height Zone 2
(35 to 70 feet); 132 feet
in Height Zone 3 (70 to
79 feet); and 239 feet in
Height Zone 4 (more than
79 feet) to the cornice
line height of the
maximum habitable
space.
N/A
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
Plan-wide (2002)
310 CMR 9.52(1)(b)1.: Utilization of
Shoreline for Water-Dependent
Purposes (Pedestrian access network)
“…walkways and related
facilities along the entire
length of the
Water-Dependent Use
Zone; wherever feasible,
such walkways shall be
adjacent to the project
shoreline and, except as
otherwise provided in a
municipal harbor plan,
shall be no less than ten
feet in width…”
At a minimum, the
pedestrian access network
shall be no less than twelve
feet wide, with ten feet clear
of an obstruction.
N/A
(c) Fort Point Downtown (Boston) Municipal Harbor Plan Phase II (March 8, 2004, as
renewed on April 9, 2014).
1. Table 1. Substitute Standards and Offsetting Measures.
Russia Wharf (2004)
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c) Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone)
New or expanded
buildings for
nonwater-dependent use,
and parking facilities at or
above grade for any use,
shall not be located within
a water-dependent use
zone; Plan may specify
alternative setback
distances and other
requirements which
ensure that new buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use are not constructed
immediately adjacent to a
project shoreline, in order
that sufficient space along
the water's edge will be
devoted exclusively to
water-dependent activity
and public access.
To accommodate the
preservation of the historic
structure, a reconfigured
WDUZ that results in a loss
of not more than 2,700 SF
of WDUZ.
N/A
Russia Wharf (2004) (continued)
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
310 CMR 9.51(3)(d):
Conservation of Capacity for
Water-Dependent Use (Lot coverage)
At least one square foot of
the project site at ground
level (exclusive of areas
lying seaward of a project
shoreline) shall be
preserved as open space
for every square foot of
tideland area within the
combined footprint of
buildings containing
nonwater-dependent use
on the project site.
To accommodate the
preservation of the
historic structure,
approximately 65,130 SF
may be occupied by the
redevelopment of
structures within the
existing footprint with
slight alterations.
Secondary ramping
system to Channel Walk
West from the Fort
Point Channel
Watersheet Activation
Plan ("FPCWAP"),
Congress Street Bridge
Lighting Project;
improvements to
Congress Street
sidewalk; and provision
of interpretive signage
(Historic Piers Network
Plan), combined value
of $1,125,000
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-Dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded
buildings for
nonwater-dependent use
shall not exceed 55 feet in
height if located over the
water or within 100 feet
landward of the high
water mark; at greater
landward distances, the
height of such buildings
shall not exceed 55 feet
plus ½ foot for every
additional foot of
separation from the high
water mark.
The roof of the highest
occupied floor of 395
feet, provided that the
elevation of the existing
Tufts roof (91 feet) shall
be maintained for a
horizontal distance 15 feet
landward of the present
mean high water line and
increase at the rate of 4.5
vertical feet for each
additional foot landward
to a maximum height of
395 feet.
Additional FPA space
(25,000 SF more than
required under c. 91),
including two of the
FPA spaces as SPDFs
(6,0000-7,000 SF total);
$1,000,000 to
implementation of
FPCWAP and
maintenance of
Children's Wharf Park
(1/2 each).
Russia Wharf and Plan-wide (2004)
310 CMR 9.52(1)(b)1.: Utilization of
Shoreline for Water-Dependent
Purposes (Pedestrian access network)
"…walkways and related
facilities along the entire
length of the
Water-Dependent Use
Zone; wherever feasible,
such walkways shall be
adjacent to the project
shoreline and, except as
otherwise provided in a
municipal harbor plan,
shall be no less than ten
feet in width…"
At a minimum, the
pedestrian access network
shall be no less than
twelve feet wide, with ten
feet clear of an
obstruction.
N/A
Table 2. Summary of Amplifications.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved
Amplification
Implementation
Mechanism
Russia Wharf and Plan-wide (2004)
310 CMR 9.53(2)(a), (c), and (d):
Activation of Commonwealth
Tidelands for Public Use (Facilities
for water-based public activity,
interior facilities of public
accommodation, management plan)
The project shall attract and maintain
substantial public activity on the site
on a year-round basis, through the
provision of water-related public
benefits of a kind and to a degree that
is appropriate for the site, given the
nature of the project, conditions of
the waterbody on which it is located,
and other relevant circumstances…
Where there is a WDUZ, the project
must include at least one facility that
promotes water-based public activity;
the project shall devote interior space
to FPAs; and the project shall include
a management plan.
! Where there is a
WDUZ, the project
shall provide at least
one facility
recommended by the
FPCWAP that
promotes water-based
public activity in the
WDUZ or provide a
monetary contribution
for implementation of
the FPCWAP.
! The project shall
devote interior space
to FPAs with special
consideration given to
facilities that enhance
the year round
destination value of
the waterfront.
! Management plan
for water-based
activities.
FPCWAP,
Section III.C and
Section V of the
Decision,
(d) Harborpark (Boston) Plan (May 22, 1991, as renewed and amended on July 29, 1999,
October 12, 2006, and April 4, 2008).
1. Table 1. Substitute Standards and Offsetting Measures.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved
Substitution
Approved
Offsetting
Measures
Charlestown Navy Yard (1991)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(d):
Conservation of Capacity for
Water-Dependent Use (Lot coverage)
and 310 CMR 9.53(2)(b) Activation of
Commonwealth Tidelands for Public
Use (Exterior open space for public
recreation)
At least one square foot of the
project site at ground level
(exclusive of areas lying seaward of
a project shoreline) shall be
preserved as open space for every
square foot of tideland area within
the combined footprint of buildings
containing nonwater-dependent use
on the project site.
Withinthe Charlestown
Navy yard, the
aggregate of open
space of all lots in the
subdistrict exclusive of
the Historic
Monument Area must
be equal to or greater
than 50% (excluding
roads and surface
parking) at all times.
N/A
310 CMR 9.53(2)(c): Activation of
Commonwealth Tidelands for Public
Use (Interior facilities of public
accommodation)
“the project shall include interior
space to facilities of public
accommodation other than public
parking, with special consideration
given to facilities that enhance the
destination value of the waterfront
by serving significant community
needs…such space shall be at least
equal in amount to the square
footage of all Commonwealth
tidelands on the project site within
the footprint of buildings containing
nonwater-dependent facilities of
private tenancy…”
Any project with more
than 10,000 SF of
floor area must include
at least 40 percent of
the ground floor to
public facilities (not
including public
parking).
Requirement 4a
+
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved
Substitution
Approved
Offsetting
Measures
Charlestown Gateway and North End (1991)
310 CMR 9.53(2)(c): Activation of
Commonwealth Tidelands for Public Use
(Interior facilities of public
accommodation)
“the project shall include interior space
to facilities of public accommodation
other than public parking, with special
consideration given to facilities that
enhance the destination value of the
waterfront by serving significant
community needs…such space shall be
at least equal in amount to the square
footage of all Commonwealth tidelands
on the project site within the footprint of
buildings containing nonwater-
dependent facilities of private
tenancy…”
Any project with more
than 10,000 SF of floor
area must include at
least 40 percent of the
ground floor to public
facilities; at least 50
percent of the ground
floor spaces within all
buildings containing
nonwatery-dependent
FPTs on pile-supported
structures on flowed
tidelands shall be FPAs
in accordance with
Requirement 8 not
including public
parking; and any project
with non-water-
dependent use
containing ground floor
interior public space
within 100 feet of a
project shoreline, such
space is for FPAs unless
an alternative location
would promote public
use and enjoyment of
the project site in a
clearly superior manner,
is necessary for upper
floor accessory services,
or is appropriate to
accommodate or to
avoid detriments to
WDU.
Requirement 4b-c
Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown Gateway, and North End (1991)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone)
New or expanded buildings for
nonwater-dependent use, and parking
facilities at or above grade for any use,
shall not be located within a
water-dependent use zone; Plan may
specify alternative setback distances and
other requirements which ensure that
new buildings for nonwater-dependent
use are not constructed immediately
adjacent to a project shoreline, in order
that sufficient space along the water's
edge will be devoted exclusively to
water-dependent activity and public
access.
35 feet along shoreline
and ends of piers, 12
feet along sides of piers
based upon existing or
new pile-supported
structures that meets the
criterion of 310 CMR
9.32(1)(a)(3); otherwise
computed in accordance
with 310 CMR
9.51(3)(c), but not less
than 25 feet from the
ends and not less than
10 from the sides; and
only if such
reconfiguration
promotes public use or
other water-dependent
activity in a clearly
superior manner with
no net loss of area and
in accordance with a
specific plan for
vessel-related
programming or a set of
guidelines for
determining sufficient
setback space for
various types of
water-based activity
Requirement 5
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved
Substitution
Approved
Offsetting
Measures
Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown Gateway, and North End (1991) (continued)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e):
Conservation of Capacity
for Water-Dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded buildings
for nonwater-dependent use
shall not exceed 55 feet in
height if located over the
water or within 100 feet
landward of the high water
mark; at greater landward
distances, the height of such
buildings shall not exceed
55 feet plus ½ foot for every
additional foot of separation
from the high water mark.
! 75 feet for Sargents and
Tudor Wharf;
! 90-135 feet on Parcel
4/4A and 125-155 feet on
Parcel 6/7 (Charlestown
Navy Yard)
Development and
contribution/compliance
with a special mitigation
program to avoid or
minimize adverse wind,
shadow, and other impacts
to ground-level environment
(the program shall specific
standards, guidelines, or
other parameters to serve as
a framework for reaching
appropriate mitigation
decisions).
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c):
Conservation of Capacity
for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone)
“nonwater-dependent
Facilities of Private Tenancy
shall not be located on any
pile-supported structures on
flowed tidelands, nor at the
ground level of any filled
tidelands within 100 feet of
the project shoreline.”
FPTs over flowed tidelands
are allowed only at the
following locations:
! Battery Wharf (North
End)
! Tudor Wharf
(Charlestown Gateway)
! Pier 5 (Charlestown Navy
Yard)
Provided that all buildings
are no higher than 55 feet
and conform to setback
requirements of 5(a-c), and
site coverage limits of 310
CMR 9.51(3)(d); no more
than 50% of ground floor
within such buildings may
be occupied by FPTs,
including upper-floor
accessory uses, and no
parking is seaward of high
water mark; residential uses
only on Battery Wharf and
Pier 5, but not at ground
level and only on the second
level if accompanied by a
commensurate increase in
one or a combination of
public open space, building
setbacks, interior facilities
of public accommodation, or
water-based public
activities; and shall avoid
conflict/minimize
incompatibility with nearby
water-dependent and/or
public activities.
Requirements 7 and 8:
Harborpark Plan must be
revised to include one or
more plans to develop a
network of SPDFs within
interior spaces along or near
the Harborwalk, primarily at
the ground level.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
226 Causeway (1999)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use shall not exceed 55 feet
in height if located over the
water or within 100 feet
landward of the high water
mark; at greater landward
distances, the height of
such buildings shall not
exceed 55 feet plus ½ foot
for every additional foot of
separation from the high
water mark.
Maximum height of 155
feet to the top of the
highest occupiable floor,
insignificant net new
shadow and no significant
deterioration in wind
conditions.
Maintenance of Port
Park (DCR) for the
term of the c. 91
license; fall and spring
clear-up of the Prince
Street Park for ten
years; 13,000 SF of
FPAs on building
ground floor; provisions
for the sale of tickets
for ferry/water
transportation in the
building lobby;
additional landscaping,
planting along 226
Causeway Street; 10%
of residential units for
affordable housing for
20 years (14 of which
are restricted for elderly
tenants for indefinite
tenancy).
Lovejoy Wharf (2006)
310 CMR 9.52(1)(b)1.: Utilization of
Shoreline for Water-dependent
Purposes (Pedestrian access network)
“…walkways and related
facilities along the entire
length of the Water-
Dependent Use Zone;
wherever feasible, such
walkways shall be
adjacent to the project
shoreline and, except as
otherwise provided in a
municipal harbor plan,
shall be no less than ten
feet in width…”
At a minimum, the
pedestrian access network
shall be no less than 12
feet wide, with ten feet
clear of an obstruction.
N/A
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone)
New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use, and
parking facilities at or
above grade for any use,
shall not be located within
a water-dependent use
zone; Plan may specify
alternative setback
distances and other
requirements which
ensure that new buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use are not constructed
immediately adjacent to a
project shoreline, in order
that sufficient space along
the water's edge will be
devoted exclusively to
water-dependent activity
and public access.
Reconfigured, no net loss:
minimum 76 feet from
seaward edge of wharf,
except for a 15 feet to
accommodate Pavilion
building on easterly
portion of site (which will
include upper level public
viewing platform, foot
access via interior and
exterior stairways, and
handicapped access via
elevator).
N/A
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
Lovejoy Wharf (2006) (continued)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(d):
Conservation of Capacity for Water-
dependent Use (Lot coverage)
At least one square foot of
the project site at ground
level (exclusive of areas
lying seaward of a project
shoreline) shall be
preserved as open space
for every square foot of
tideland area within the
combined footprint of
buildings containing
nonwater-dependent use
on the project site.
All exterior space not
within the footprint of the
buildings (42,949 SF) or
the Pavilion (5,819 SF)
shall be open space and
all open space seaward of
the building shall be for
pedestrian use only.
4,429 SF of upper level
terrace on the Pavilion
with associated public
access (see WDUZ
requirement), public
restrooms, and ground
level, rent-free space
for a visitor center or
other public use.
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use shall not exceed 55 feet
in height if located over the
water or within 100 feet
landward of the high water
mark; at greater landward
distances, the height of
such buildings shall not
exceed 55 feet plus ½ foot
for every additional foot of
separation from the high
water mark.
Heights ranging from 115
feet to 155 feet (to the roof
of the highest occupiable
floor)
as
shown
in
municipal harbor planning
area (MHPA), provided
wind
meets
Boston
R e d e v e l o p m e n t
Autho rity’s
( B RA)
standards and minimal
NNS.
$150,000 annual water
transportation facility
operations subsidy for
five years, maintenance
of dock and shoreside
facility for ten years.
(e) South Boston Waterfront District Municipal Harbor Plan (December 6, 2000, as
renewed and amended on December 31, 2002, October 22, 2009, and December 21, 2016).
1. Table 1. Substitute Standards and Offsetting Measures.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
Plan-wide (2000, not including 100 Acres Master)
310 CMR 9.52(1)(b)1.: Utilization of
Shoreline for Water-dependent
Purposes (Pedestrian access network)
“…walkways and related
facilities along the entire
length of the Water-
Dependent Use Zone;
wherever feasible, such
walkways shall be
adjacent to the project
shoreline and, except as
otherwise provided in a
municipal harbor plan,
shall be no less than ten
feet in width…”
At a minimum, the
pedestrian access network
shall be no less than 12
feet wide, with ten feet
clear of an obstruction.
N/A
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
Plan-wide (2000, not including 100 Acres Master) (continued)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(b):
Conservation of Capacity for Water-
dependent Use (Location of facilities
of private tenancy and facilities of
public accommodation) and 310 CMR
9.53(2)(b)1.: Activation of
Commonwealth Tidelands for Public
Use (Exterior open space for public
recreation)
At a minimum, at least
50% of the project site
must be reserved as open
space for water-dependent
activity and public access.
The open space must be
located on land (i.e.,
cannot include
watersheet) and be
accessible to the general
public at all times. On
Commonwealth
Tidelands, a maximum of
50% of the required open
space (i.e., 25% or more
of the total project site)
can be devoted to streets
and ways.
All projects within the
harbor planning area must
comply, at a minimum,
with the 50% open space
area requirements of the
Waterways Regulations.
However, only a
maximum of 20% of the
lot area can be devoted to
streets and ways, and
surface parking lots are
not allowed.
N/A
310 CMR 9.53(2)(c): Activation of
Commonwealth Tidelands for Public
Use (Interior facilities of public
accommodation) and 310 CMR 9.02:
Definitions (Facilities of private
tenancy and facilities of public
accommodation)
A project within
Commonwealth Tidelands
must provide Facilities of
Public Accommodation
on the ground floor of all
buildings containing
Facilities of Private
Tenancy (FPTs). At a
maximum, ground floor
accessory uses to upper
floor FPTs must not
exceed 25% of the area of
the building footprint.
The amount of ground
floor space that can be
devoted to upper floor
FPT accessory uses
cannot exceed 20% of the
building footprint.
Further, residential
lobbies and entrances
cannot front along the
waterside of any
building(s).
N/A
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
Fan Pier (2000)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use shall not
exceed 55 feet in height if
located over the water or
within 100 feet landward
of the high water mark; at
greater landward
distances, the height of
such buildings shall not
exceed 55 feet plus ½ foot
for every additional foot
of separation from the
high water mark.
Moving landward from
WDUZ, proposed height
zones increase from 175
feet to 250 feet to 275 feet
and 300 feet along Old
Northern Avenue and
Courthouse Way, except
for Parcels H (175 feet)
and J (75 feet).
! 42,400 square feet of
additional open space,
in excess of 50% of the
site area, at a ratio of
2:1;
! Approximately
21,000 square feet of
publicly accessible
space on the surface of
the breakwater, at a
ratio of 1:1;
! 15,500 square feet of
the footprint of the civic
building on Parcel J, at
a ratio of 1:1; and
! Approximately
30,000 square feet of
pedestrian-usable open
space, calculated as part
of the 20% of the site
area that could be
devoted to streets and
ways, at a ratio of 1:1.
If other offsets are
required under the
formula, they may be
provided from any of
the above categories. In
addition, the following
offsets may be used:
! No more than 15% of
the total allowable
offset in the form of
water transporta-tion
benefits in excess of the
baseline Chapter 91
requirements; and
! No more than 10% of
the total allowable
offset as improvements
to water-related public
access facilities within
the Boston Harbor
Islands National Park
Area.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
Fan Pier (2000) (continued)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone)
New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use, and
parking facilities at or
above grade for any use,
shall not be located within
a water-dependent use
zone; Plan may specify
alternative setback
distances and other
requirements which
ensure that new buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use are not constructed
immediately adjacent to a
project shoreline, in order
that sufficient space along
the water's edge will be
devoted exclusively to
water-dependent activity
and public access.
! 150 feet along fan edge
! 60-75 feet along cove
edge
! 30 feet (preference for
40 feet) along civic site
! No net loss of WDUZ
area
N/A
Pier 4 (2000)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-Dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded
buildings for
nonwater-dependent use
shall not exceed 55 feet in
height if located over the
water or within 100 feet
landward of the high
water mark; at greater
landward distances, the
height of such buildings
shall not exceed 55 feet
plus ½ foot for every
additional foot of
separation from the high
water mark.
Landward of a 200-foot
no-build zone at the
seaward end of the pier,
heights may increase from
100 feet to 170 feet to 250
feet.
200-foot no-build zone
and 1 SF of open space
for every 2 SF of NNS
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone)
New or expanded
buildings for
nonwater-dependent use,
and parking facilities at or
above grade for any use,
shall not be located within
a water-dependent use
zone; Plan may specify
alternative setback
distances and other
requirements which
ensure that new buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use are not constructed
immediately adjacent to a
project shoreline, in order
that sufficient space along
the water's edge will be
devoted exclusively to
water-dependent activity
and public access.
! 46 feet along cove edge
! 100 feet at seaward end
of pier (with additional
100 feet as height offset)
! 26 feet along easterly
edge of Pier 4
! No net loss of WDUZ
area
N/A
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
McCourt/Broderick Parcels A, B, C and D
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-Dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone) and
310 CMR 9.51(3)(d):
Conservation of Capacity for
Water-Dependent Use (Lot coverage)
New or expanded
buildings for
nonwater-dependent use,
and parking facilities at or
above grade for any use,
shall not be located within
a water-dependent use
zone; Plan may specify
alternative setback
distances and other
requirements which
ensure that new buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use are not constructed
immediately adjacent to a
project shoreline, in order
that sufficient space along
the water's edge will be
devoted exclusively to
water-dependent activity
and public access.
At least one square foot of
the project site at ground
level (exclusive of areas
lying seaward of a project
shoreline) shall be
preserved as open space
for every square foot of
tideland area within the
combined footprint of
buildings containing
nonwater-dependent use
on the project site.
No open space is required
Parcel E (approximately
8,100 SF) will be 100%
public open space; open
space requirements for
Parcels A-D, F shall be
aggregated on Parcel E
at a 1:1 ratio until
Parcel E is completed
and then at a 1.25:1
ratio on the McCourt
Fan Pier Gateway
Project property (i.e.,
outside of jurisdiction,
thus 25% more open
space), all of which
shall be located
adjacent to land subject
to c. 91 jurisdiction and
with a visual connection
to the waterfront; all
open space must be
standards for open
space on
Commonwealth
Tidelands and provided
concurrent with impacts
of individual projects.
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-Dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded
buildings for
nonwater-dependent use
shall not exceed 55 feet in
height if located over the
water or within 100 feet
landward of the high
water mark; at greater
landward distances, the
height of such buildings
shall not exceed 55 feet
plus ½ foot for every
additional foot of
separation from the high
water mark.
Parcel A: 200 feet
Parcels B and C: 250 feet
Parcel D: 75 feet
For Parcels A-C: 1 SF
of open space for every
2 SF of NNS
No offset for Parcel D
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
Barking Crab (2000)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use shall not
exceed 55 feet in height if
located over the water or
within 100 feet landward
of the high water mark; at
greater landward
distances, the height of
such buildings shall not
exceed 55 feet plus ½ foot
for every additional foot
of separation from the
high water mark.
75 feet
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone)
New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use, and
parking facilities at or
above grade for any use,
shall not be located within
a water-dependent use
zone; Plan may specify
alternative setback
distances and other
requirements which
ensure that new buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use are not constructed
immediately adjacent to a
project shoreline, in order
that sufficient space along
the water's edge will be
devoted exclusively to
water-dependent activity
and public access.
12 feet wide coincident
with public access
structure, which may be
an interior arcaded
walkway within the first
floor of the new structure
N/A
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone) and 310
CMR 9.51(3)(d): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use (Lot
coverage)
New or expanded buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use, and parking facilities
at or above grade for any
use, shall not be located
within a water-dependent
use zone; Plan may specify
alternative
setback
distances
and
other
requirements which ensure
that new buildings for
nonwater-dependent use
are
not
constructed
immediately adjacent to a
project shoreline, in order
that sufficient space along
the water's edge will be
devoted exclusively to
water-dependent activity
and public access.
At least one square foot of
the project site at ground
level (exclusive of areas
lying seaward of a project
shoreline)
shall
be
preserved as open space
for every square foot of
tideland area within the
combined footprint of
buildings
containing
nonwater-dependent use on
the project site.
No open space is required.
Payment into open space
fund.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
Barking Crab (2000) (continued)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(b):
Conservation of Capacity for Water-
dependent Use (Location of facilities
of private tenancy and facilities of
public accommodation)
“…nonwater-dependent
Facilities of Private
Tenancy shall not be
located on any pile-
supported structures on
flowed tidelands, nor at
the ground level of any
filled tidelands within 100
feet of the project
shoreline…”
FPTs allowed on pile-
support structures, except
on the first, second and
top floors; all structures
must be within the
existing pile field FPTs
allowed on second floor if
the exterior docking
facilities, marine services,
and interior space
dedicated to WD uses are
fully retained.
Top floor public
observation area (100%
of the gross floor area
(GFA) on the top floor),
capable of being
enclosed for all-season
use; with appropriate
amenities; fully
accessible; identified
prominently by signage;
no purchase required.
Fort Point Historic North District (2000)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone) and 310
CMR 9.51(3)(d): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Lot coverage)
New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use, and
parking facilities at or
above grade for any use,
shall not be located within
a water-dependent use
zone; Plan may specify
alternative setback
distances and other
requirements which
ensure that new buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use are not constructed
immediately adjacent to a
project shoreline, in order
that sufficient space along
the water's edge will be
devoted exclusively to
water-dependent activity
and public access.
At least one square foot of
the project site at ground
level (exclusive of areas
lying seaward of a project
shoreline) shall be
preserved as open space
for every square foot of
tideland area within the
combined footprint of
buildings containing
nonwater-dependent use
on the project site.
No open space is
required.
1)The City-owned
parcel located on
Sleeper Street,
immediately adjacent to
the MBTA Mitigation
Park and Parcel “E”,
should be designated as
the specific locus for
investment of the Open
Space Fund, unless the
City can propose an
alternative site that
meets the same
standards.
2) 33 Sleeper Street,
11-13 Sleeper Street,
and 321-323 Congress
Street shall participate
in the City’s Open
Space Fund as provided
in the MHP, in
accordance with the
schedule of contribution
proposed in the MHP.
3) The Open Space
Fund contributions of
33 Sleeper Street, 11-13
Sleeper Street, and 321-
323 Congress Street
should be used
specifically for the
design and construction
of open space on the
City-owned Sleeper
Street parcel,
compatible with and
supplemental to open
space designs for the
MBTA Mitigation Park
and Parcel “E”.
4) At a minimum, the
final design and
construction of open
space provided to meet
these requirements shall
satisfy the Chapter 91
standards for open
space located on
Commonwealth
Tidelands.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
Fort Point Historic North District (2000) (continued)
5) All open space
commitments must be
provided concurrent
with the individual
development projects.
However, overall
project work may be
phased; for example,
one project’s
contribution may be
sufficient to fund the
design of a proposed
open space, with
construction dependent
upon contributions from
other projects. If
necessary, any shortfall
in funding beyond the
project-specific
contributions shall be
made up from other
sources to fully
complete the design and
construction of
designated open spaces.
6) The City shall
develop a system that
accounts for the status
of the aggregation
program, and shall
maintain a running
balance of the parcel to
which open space funds
are to be credited.
Using this open space
accounting system, the
City shall include a
certification of open
space status to DEP as
part of its Section 18
recommendation on
Waterways licenses.
Fort Point Historic South and Industrial Districts (2000)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use shall not
exceed 55 feet in height if
located over the water or
within 100 feet landward
of the high water mark; at
greater landward
distances, the height of
such buildings shall not
exceed 55 feet plus ½ foot
for every additional foot
of separation from the
high water mark.
Historic South District:
150 feet south of Summer
Street and 100 feet for
remainder of district,
except at 60 Necco Court,
which is limited to 80
feet.
NNS offset at 2:1 ratio
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
Fort Point Historic South and Industrial Districts (2000) (continued)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone)
New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use, and
parking facilities at or
above grade for any use,
shall not be located within
a water-dependent use
zone; Plan may specify
alternative setback
distances and other
requirements which
ensure that new buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use are not constructed
immediately adjacent to a
project shoreline, in order
that sufficient space along
the water's edge will be
devoted exclusively to
water-dependent activity
and public access.
18 feet along edge of Fort
Point Channel for 60
Necco Court, no net loss
of WDUZ area in rest of
Fort Point Historic South
District.
N/A
ICA (2002)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone)
New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use, and
parking facilities at or
above grade for any use,
shall not be located within
a water-dependent use
zone; Plan may specify
alternative setback
distances and other
requirements which
ensure that new buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use are not constructed
immediately adjacent to a
project shoreline, in order
that sufficient space along
the water's edge will be
devoted exclusively to
water-dependent activity
and public access.
Fourth-floor gallery space
may cantilever over
WDUZ at least 40 feet
vertically above grade.
N/A
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
ICA (2002) (continued)
310 CMR 9.53(2)(b): Activation of
Commonwealth Tidelands for Public
Use (Exterior open space for public
recreation)
At a minimum, at least
50% of the project site
must be reserved as open
space for water-dependent
activity and public access.
The open space must be
located on land (i.e.,
cannot include
watersheet) and be
accessible to the general
public at all times. On
Commonwealth
Tidelands, a maximum of
50% of the required open
space (i.e., 25% or more
of the total project site)
can be devoted to streets
and ways.
Public grandstand setback
approximately 24 feet
from project shoreline,
not less than 74 feet from
the project shoreline to
the structure at the
northeastern edge of the
building and not less than
68 feet from the project
shoreline to the
northwestern edge of the
building.
N/A
100 Acres (2009)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone)
“New or expanded
buildings for non
waterdependent use…
shall not be located within
a waterdependent use
zone”. The WDUZ in the
MHP area includes a
setback for non-water
dependent uses that would
vary from 80 to 100 feet,
depending upon location
and characteristics of
projects that may be
proposed.”
An alternative WDUZ
will be established that
generally increases the
minimum setback to 110
feet from the project
shoreline, except for that
portion of the planning
area between the Fort
Point Channel and 60
Necco Court which will
have a setback of 18 feet.
The reconfigured
WDUZ will provide at
least the same land area
as would occur under
the standard provisions.
The WDUZ is larger
throughout most of the
planning area and will
enhance public access
and enjoyment of this
area of the waterfront.
No net loss of WDUZ
will occur.
310 CMR 9.52(1)(b)1.: Utilization of
Shoreline for Water-dependent
Purposes (Pedestrian access network)
“…walkways and related
facilities along the entire
length of the Water-
Dependent Use Zone;
wherever feasible, such
walkways shall be
adjacent to the project
shoreline and, except as
otherwise provided in a
municipal harbor plan,
shall be no less than ten
feet in width…”
The minimum width will
be widened to 18 feet
clear in areas where the
WDUZ is at least 100 feet
wide and 12 feet clear
along the remainder of the
shoreline.
The substitution directly
benefits the public
through enhanced
access (open 24
hours/seven days per
week); no offsetting
public benefit is
required.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
100 Acres (2009) (continued)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use shall not
exceed 55 feet in height if
located over the water or
within 100 feet landward
of the high water mark; at
greater landward
distances, the height of
such buildings shall not
exceed 55 feet plus ½ foot
for every additional foot
of separation from the
high water mark.
Allow non water-
dependent buildings
ranging in height from 80
feet to 180 feet.
The substitution results
in a required offset for
net new shadow. The
proposed offset is
additional public open
space. This offset is
permitted on a 1:2 ratio
of additional open
space to net new
shadow.
150 Seaport Boulevard (2016)
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use shall not
exceed 55 feet in height if
located over the water or
within 100 feet landward
of the high water mark; at
greater landward
distances, the height of
such buildings shall not
exceed 55 feet plus ½ foot
for every additional foot
of separation from the
high water mark.
Allow height up to 250
feet
Proposed building will
create 16,640 sf in net
new shadow.
$1.5 million to improve
open space within or
adjacent to the South
Boston MHP planning
area, specifically
Martin’s Park at
Children’s Wharf.
Interior public waiting
area and reception
space on the ground
floor of the proposed
development integrated
within the general lobby
areas, including
amenities and
programming described
above with clear
signage on the interior
and exterior of the
building.
310 CMR 9.51(3)(d):
Conservation of Capacity for Water-
dependent Use (Lot coverage)
At least one square foot of
the project site at ground
level (exclusive of areas
lying seaward of a project
shoreline) shall be
preserved as open space
for every square foot of
tideland area within the
combined footprint of
buildings containing
nonwater-dependent use
on the project site.
Up to 75% lot coverage
may be permitted.
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone)
“New or expanded
buildings for nonwater-
dependent use, and
parking facilities at or
above grade for any use,
shall not be located within
a water-dependent use
zone”.
On the Development Site,
the required WDUZ
would total 5,768 sf.
The required WDUZ
dimensions may be
reconfigured as long as a
minimum width of ten feet
is maintained along the
project shoreline and as
long as the modification
results in no net loss of
WDUZ area.
The reconfigured
WDUZ will include the
ten ft. setback from the
existing project
shoreline (except that
area which is under the
cantilevered balcony
areas) and one of two
alternative areas of
approximately 2,000 sf
described above, with a
preference for
“Massport Wharf”.
2. Table 2: Summary of Amplifications.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Amplification
Implementation
Mechanism
100 Acres (2009)
310 CMR 9.52: Utilization of
Shoreline for Water-dependent
Purposes
“A facility that promotes
active use of the project
shoreline and requires the
provision of a pedestrian
network of a kind and to a
degree appropriate for the
project site.”
The amplification of these
requirements directs the
implementation of these
regulations to the
provision of the boating
dock facility and
pedestrian network
envisioned in the Fort
Point Channel Watersheet
Activation Plan.
Additional activation of
the Harborwalk and
waterfront open space will
be provided through the
use of historic interpretive
elements and displays.
The particular type and
location of exhibits will
be appropriate to this
particular location in the
harbor, and will follow
guidance provided in
Section 9 and Appendix 1
of the Plan.
FPCWAP and South
Boston Waterfront
District Municipal
Harbor Planning Area
(SBWDMHPA),
Section 9 and Appendix
1
310 CMR 9.53: Activation of
Commonwealth Tidelands for Public
Use
Nonwater-dependent use
projects located on
Commonwealth Tidelands
must promote public use
and enjoyment of such
lands to a degree that is
fully commensurate with
the proprietary rights of
the Commonwealth and
that ensures that private
advantages of use are not
primary merely incidental
to the achievement of
public purposes.
The amplification of this
requirement will provide
public benefits
recommended by the Fort
Point Channel Watersheet
Activation Plan in the
WDUZ and adjacent
watersheet to promote
public uses and enjoyment
of Commonwealth
tidelands.
FPCWAP
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Amplification
Implementation
Mechanism
150 Seaport Boulevard (2016)
310 CMR 9.53(2)(b): Activation of
Commonwealth Tidelands for Public
Use (Exterior open space for public
recreation)
At a minimum, at least
50% of the project site
must be reserved as open
space for water-dependent
activity and public access.
The open space must be
located on land (i.e.,
cannot include
watersheet) and be
accessible to the general
public at all times. On
Commonwealth
Tidelands, a maximum of
50% of the required open
space (i.e., 25% or more
of the total project site)
can be devoted to streets
and ways.
5,000 SF of exterior open
space on a deck beyond
the existing project
shoreline.
Easements with
Massport
(f) Cohasset Municipal Harbor Plan (November 25, 2020).
1. Table 1. Substitute Standards and Offsetting Measures.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation of
Capacity for Water-dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use shall not exceed 55
feet in height if located
over the water or within
100 feet landward of the
high water mark; at greater
landward distances, the
height of such buildings
shall not exceed 55 feet
plus ½ foot for every
additional foot of
separation from the high
water mark.
New or expanded buildings
shall not exceed 35 feet in
height above Base Flood
Elevation within the
Harbor Village District
(HVB) Overlay District.
No offset is required
because, no new or
expanded non-water
dependent buildings will
be greater than the
waterways maximum
numerical standard of 55
feet in height.
310 CMR 9.52(1)(b)1.: Utilization of
Shoreline for Water-dependent Purposes
(Pedestrian access network)
“…walkways and related
facilities along the entire
length of the Water-
Dependent
Use
Zone;
wherever feasible, such
walkways shall be adjacent
to the project shoreline and,
except
as
otherwise
provided in a municipal
harbor plan, shall be no less
than ten feet in width…”
Walkways within the HVB
Overlay District shall be
along the entire length of
the water-dependent use
zone adjacent to the project
shoreline and shall be no
less than 25 feet in width.
N/A
(g) Central Waterfront (Everett) Municipal Harbor Plan (February 10, 2014)
1. Table 1. Substitute Standards and Offsetting Measures
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Substitution
Offsetting Measures
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c): Conservation
of Capacity for Water-dependent
Use (Water-dependent use zone)
“New or expanded buildings
for nonwater-dependent use,
and parking facilities at or
above grade for any use, shall
not be located within a water-
dependent use zone”.
On the Development Site, the
required WDUZ would be 100
feet from the southernmost
shoreline along the Mystic
River, 85 feet along the
embayment, and 100 feet from
the northern portion of the
shoreline along the
embayment.
The required WDUZ
dimensions may be modified
as long as a minimum width of
25 feet is maintained along the
project shoreline and as long
as the modification results in
no net loss of WDUZ area.
The reconfigured
WDUZ will provide
at least the same land
area as would occur
under the standard
provisions. A mini-
mum of 25 feet will
be maintained along
the project shoreline
and only Facilities of
Public
Accommodation will
be allowed on the
ground floor of any
portions of buildings
that are located within
50 feet of the project
shoreline. No net loss
of WDUZ will occur.
310 CMR 9.51(3)(b):
Conservation of Capacity for
Water-dependent Use (Location of
Facilities of Private Tenancy and
Facilities of Public
Accommodation)
“…nonwater-dependent
Facilities of Private Tenancy
shall not be located on any
pile-supported structures on
flowed tidelands, nor at the
ground level of any filled
tidelands within 100 feet of
the project shoreline…”
Lower Broadway: FPTs may
be allowed within 100 feet of
the shoreline.
At least an equivalent
area of Facilities of
Public
Accommodation as
required by the
regulations will be
provided elsewhere
on the site in
appropriate locations
to effectively promote
the public use and
enjoyment of the
project site. FPTs are
not allowed within 50
feet of the project
shoreline.
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e): Conservation
of Capacity for Water-dependent
Use (Building height)
New or expanded buildings
for nonwater-dependent use
shall not exceed 55 feet in
height if located over the
water or within 100 feet
landward of the high water
mark; at greater landward
distances, the height of such
buildings shall not exceed 55
feet plus ½ foot for every
additional foot of separation
from the high water mark.
Wynn Everett: Allow heights
up to 55 feet in Area A and up
to 400 feet in Area B, as
shown in Figure 2.
Lower Broadway: Allow
heights up to 105 feet in Area
A and up to 150 feet in Area
B, as shown in Figure 2.
Where increased
heights result in net
new shadow, one
square foot of
new/additional open
space beyond what is
required in the
Waterways
regulations will be
provided in the
Harbor Planning area
within or immediately
adjacent to
jurisdiction for every
one square foot of net
new shadow.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Substitution
Offsetting Measures
310 CMR 9.51(3)(d):
Conservation of Capacity for
Water-dependent Use (Lot
coverage)
At least one square foot of the
project site at ground level
(exclusive of areas lying
seaward of a project shoreline)
shall be preserved as open space
for every square foot of tideland
area within the combined
footprint of buildings containing
nonwater-dependent use on the
project site.
Up to 60% lot coverage
(resulting in 40% open
space) may be permitted.
For Lower Broadway scenario
development exceeding 50%
lot coverage, one or more of
the following open space
improvements or public
amenities must be provided:
As a first priority, and to be
pursued before alternative
offsets below, unless proven
unfeasible due to property
ownership or other
restrictions, construct and
maintain a continuous
landscaped pedestrian/bicycle
connection between on-site
riverfront pathways and DCR
open space at Gateway Park,
including a minimum of
50,000 square feet of off-site
open space located on the
MBTA-owned peninsula
along and underneath the
commuter rail line and/or
other portions of the Gateway
Center property.
For Wynn scenario
development, and if the
priority offset above is not
feasible for the Lower
Broadway scenario, one or
more of the following should
be provided (in prioritized
order) to equal at least the
amount of lot coverage in
excess of the 50% baseline:
! For the first 10,000 square
feet, provide and maintain a
facility to provide river access
by boat in Gateway Park (such
as a canoe/kayak launch);
! For the next 20,000 square
feet, provide and maintain a
fishing platform or pier with
associated amenities;
! For the next 10,000 square
feet, provide and maintain
3,000 linear feet of improved
walking and/or bicycle paths
in Gateway Park, widened to a
minimum of ten feet clear; and
! For every remaining one
square foot, provide 25 square
feet of ongoing maintenance
of DCR facilities and/or
property in the planning area
which is not already
maintained by Gateway
Center.
(h) Gloucester Municipal Harbor Plan and DPA Master Plan (July 6, 1999, as renewed
and amended on December 11, 2009 and December 19, 2014).
1. Table 1. Substitute Standards and Offsetting Measures.
Plan-wide (2009, 2014)
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Substitution
Offsetting Measures
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c):
Conservation of Capacity for
Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone)
New or expanded buildings for
nonwater-dependent use, and
parking facilities at or above
grade for any use, shall not be
located within a water-dependent
use zone; except as provided
below, the width of said zone
shall be determined as follows:
1. along portions of a project
shoreline other than the edges of
piers and wharves, the zone
extends for the lesser of 100 feet
or 25% of the weighted average
distance from the present high
water mark to the landward lot
line of the property, but no less
than 25 feet; and
2. along the ends of piers and
wharves, the zone extends for
the lesser of 100 feet or 25% of
the distance from the edges in
question to the base of the pier
or wharf, but no less than 25
feet; and
3. along all sides of piers and
wharves, the zone extends for
the lesser of 50 feet or 15% of
the distance from the edges in
question to the edges
immediately opposite, but no
less than ten feet.
For project sites that meet
the eligibility standard,
the required WDUZ
dimensions may be
modified as long as a
minimum width of 25 feet
is maintained along the
project shoreline and the
ends of piers and wharfs
and a minimum of 10 feet
along the sides of piers
and wharves, and as long
as the modification results
in no net loss of WDUZ
area.
Substitution provision can
only be applied to those
project sites where it is shown
that application of the c. 91
standard would result in an
inefficient siting of uses in the
WDUZ, and where the
reconfiguration achieves
greater effectiveness in the use
of the water's edge for water-
dependent industrial use.
The reconfigured zone must
be adjacent to the waterfront
and result in an increase in
WDUZ immediately adjacent
to the water. In no case will a
reconfigured WDUZ that
results in an area separated
from the waterfront or in a net
loss of WDUZ be allowed.
Table 2. Summary of Amplifications.
Plan-wide (2009, 2014 (continued)
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Amplification
310 CMR 9.36(4)(b): Standards
to Protect Water-dependent Uses
(Displacement
of
water-
dependent uses)
“…the project shall include arrangements
determined to be reasonable by the Department
for the water-dependent use to be continued at
its existing facility, or at a facility at an
alternative location having physical attributes,
including proximity to the water, and associated
business conditions which equal or surpass those
of the original facility and as may be identified
in a municipal harbor plan…”
No project will displace existing
commercial fishing vessel berthing in
Gloucester Harbor without providing
reasonably equivalent berthing space on
site or at a suitable alternative site not
already used by commercial fishing
vessels.
310 CMR 9.36(5)(b)4.:
Standards to Protect
W a te r -d e p e n d e n t
U s e s
(Supporting DPA Use)
“…in the case of supporting DPA use,
conditions governing the nature and extent of
operational or economic support must be
established to ensure that such support will be
effectively provided to water-dependent-
industrial uses…”
For properties with a water-dependent
industrial hub port use, economic support
from the supporting use to the hub use
will be presumed.
If no water-dependent industrial use
exists or is proposed on the site, an
investment in on-site
waterfront infrastructure (piers, wharves,
dredging) to improve capacity for water-
dependent industrial use will be required.
Whenever feasible, maintenance of
existing berthing and creation of new
berthing for commercial vessels should
be required.
If, and only if, none of the above can be
achieved adequately, a contribution to
the Gloucester Port Maintenance and
Improvement Fund will be required as
mitigation. This fund shall be used only
for investment in water dependent
industrial infrastructure (piers, wharves,
dredging) within the DPA.
310
CMR
9.52(1)(b)1.:
Utilization of Shoreline for
Water-dependent
Purposes
(Pedestrian access network)
“…walkways and related facilities along the
entire length of the Water-Dependent Use Zone;
wherever feasible, such walkways shall be
adjacent to the project shoreline and, except as
otherwise provided in a municipal harbor plan,
shall be no less than ten feet in width…”
To the extent practicable for a site,
public access facilities shall be integrated
into a project to activate the waterfront as
part of the open space required with a
non-water dependent supporting DPA
use but must be sited to be compatible
with and not interfere with water-
dependent industrial uses and activities.
Open areas used to support working
waterfront activities seasonally during
the year shall accommodate temporary
public access when possible.
Within the WDUZ no use shall be
licensed, unless it provides access to
water-borne vessels wherever possible.
Plan-wide (2009, 2014) continued
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Amplification
310 CMR 9.12(2)(b):
Determination of Water-
dependency (Water-dependent
industrial uses)
The Department shall find to be water-
dependent industrial the following uses:
1. Marine terminals and related facilities for
the transfer between ship and shore, and the
storage of bulk materials or other goods
transported in waterborne commerce
2. Facilities associated with commercial
passenger vessel operations
3. Manufacturing facilities relying primarily
on the bulk receipt or shipment of goods
by waterborne transportation
4. Commercial fishing and fish processing
facilities
5. Boatyards, dry docks, and other facilities
related to the construction, serving,
maintenance, repair, or storage of vessels or
other marine structures
6. Facilities for tugboats, barges, dredges, or
other vessels engaged in port operations or
marine construction
7. Any water-dependent use listed in 310
CMR 9.12(2)(a)9. through 14., provided the
Department determines such use to be
associated with the operations of a Designated
Port Area
8. Hydroelectric power generating facilities
9. Offshore renewable energy infrastructure
facilities in the Commonwealth, including
ocean wave energy facilities used to deliver
electricity, natural gas or Telecommunications
services to the public from an offshore facility
located outside the Commonwealth; and
10. Other industrial uses or infrastructure
facilities which cannot reasonably be located
at an inland site as determined in accordance
with 310 CMR 9.12(2)(c) or (d).
In addition to existing allowable water-
dependent industrial uses, MassDEP
may find that marine research, testing
or development activities are water-
dependent industrial uses if they
include the following characteristics:
1. Access to coastal waters for
research, testing or development; and
2. Commercial fishing facilities,
including those engaged in research,
testing, or development related to
commercial fishing safety,
conservation, and sustainability; or
3. Boatyards, dry docks, and other
fishing facilities related to the
construction, serving, maintenance,
repair, or storage of vessels or other
marine structures engaged in marine
science and technology, including
research, development, or testing; or
4. Facilities for tugboats, barges,
dredges, or other vessels engaged in
port operations or marine construction,
including those related to marine
research, development, or testing.
Table 3: Planning Principles and Priorities.
Planning Principle/Priority
Decision Standard
Implementation Mechanism
Allow up to 50% DPA supporting
commercial uses on filled tidelands
for most properties within the DPA
by transferring the supporting use
allowances for certain key parcels
that will be 100% water-dependent
industrial use.
MassDEP shall not license commercial
DPA supporting uses within the
Gloucester DPA within filled and
flowed tidelands in the following areas:
on the State Fish Pier; the U.S. Coast
Guard Facility; Cruiseport Gloucester;
or within or on any DPA roadway or
pile-supported pier.
MassDEP may license commercial DPA
supporting uses on up to 50% of a
project site on filled tidelands on DPA
properties not listed above.
Chapter 91 Licensing
(i) Lynn Municipal Harbor Plan and DPA Master Plan (June 28, 2010, as renewed and
amended on November 25, 2020).
1. Table 1. Substitute Standards and Offsetting Measures.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved
Offsetting Measures
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c):
Conservation of Capacity
for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use zone)
New or expanded buildings for
nonwater-dependent use, and parking
facilities at or above grade for any use,
shall not be located within a water-
dependent use zone; except as provided
below, the width of said zone shall be
determined as follows:
1. along portions of a project shoreline
other than the edges of piers and
wharves, the zone extends for the lesser
of 100 feet or 25% of the weighted
average distance from the present high
water mark to the landward lot line of
the property, but no less than 25 feet;
and
2. along the ends of piers and wharves,
the zone extends for the lesser of 100
feet or 25% of the distance from the
edges in question to the base of the pier
or wharf, but no less than 25 feet; and
3. along all sides of piers and wharves,
the zone extends for the lesser of 50
feet or 15% of the distance from the
edges in question to the edges
immediately opposite, but no less than
ten feet.
A minimum WDUZ setback
of 100 feet from the
shoreline, with a net total
WDUZ area equal to or
greater than the area of a 200
feet WDUZ setback for the
project site.
Applies to the harbor focus
area only.
No offset is required
as the substitution
increases the WDUZ
required under
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c).
310 CMR 9.52(1)(b)1.:
Utilization of Shoreline for
Water-dependent Purposes
(Pedestrian access network)
“…walkways and related facilities
along the entire length of the Water-
Dependent Use Zone; wherever
feasible, such walkways shall be
adjacent to the project shoreline and,
except as otherwise provided in a
municipal harbor plan, shall be no less
than ten feet in width…”
Minimum walkway width of
15 to 30 feet outside of the
DPA and within the harbor
focus area, unless the width
is physically constrained.
In no cases will the allowed
width be less than ten feet.
Width shall be consistent
with the guidance provided in
the 2019 Waterfront Open
Space Master Plan (“2019
WOSMP”) included as
Appendix A.
All opportunities to provide
the appropriate width should
be considered, including
cantilevering as appropriate.
No offset is required
because in all cases
the waterfront
promenade will be no
less than the
waterways minimum
numerical standard of
ten feet wide.
2. Table 2. Summary of Amplifications
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Amplification
310 CMR 9.52: Utilization
of Shoreline for Water-
dependent Purposes
A nonwater-dependent use project that
includes fill or structures on any
tidelands shall devote a reasonable
portion of such lands to water-
dependent use, including public access
in the exercise of public rights in such
lands. In applying this standard, the
Department shall take into account any
relevant information concerning the
capacity of the project site to serve
such water-dependent purposes,
especially in the vicinity of a water-
dependent use zone; and shall give
particular consideration to applicable
guidance specified in a municipal
harbor plan, as provided in 310 CMR
9.34(2)(b)2.
Applies the tidelands standards at 310 CMR
9.53(2) for public use to any tideland areas within
the expanded WDUZ outside of the DPA and
within the harbor focus area, with specific
guidance from the 2019 Waterfront Open Space
Master Plan (2019 WOSMP). This amplification
requires that these areas are designed to “maintain
substantial public activity on the site on a year-
round basis, with public parks, plazas, and
observation areas that also have public amenities
that shall include seating, lighting, trash
receptacles, restrooms, and children’s play areas,
as appropriate” and must be consistent with the
2019 WOSMP.
310 CMR 9.52(1)(b)1.:
Utilization of Shoreline for
Water-dependent Purposes
(Pedestrian access network)
A pedestrian access network of a kind
and to a degree that is appropriate for
the project site and the facility(ies)
provided in 310 CMR 9.52(1)(a).
Design, materials, and layout for the waterfront
promenade within the WDUZ and outside of the
DPA and within the harbor focus area shall be
consistent with the guidelines provided in the
2019 WOSMP.
310 CMR 9.52(1)(b)2.:
Utilization of Shoreline for
Water-dependent Purposes
(Pedestrian access network)
A pedestrian access network of a kind
and to a degree that is appropriate for
the project site and the facility(ies)
provided in 310 CMR 9.52(1)(a); at a
minimum, such network shall consist
of: appropriate connecting walkways
that allow pedestrians to approach the
shoreline walkways from public ways
or other public access facilities to
which any tidelands on the project site
are adjacent. Such pedestrian access
network shall be available to the public
for use in connection with fishing,
fowling, navigation, and any other
purposes consistent with the extent of
public rights at the project site.
Specifies locations, with a process for substitute
locations, for public access walkways to connect
the Lynnway to the project shoreline through the
harbor planning area (HPA). Design and amenity
requirements for these lateral accessways shall be
as shown and described in the 2019 WOSMP.
3. Table 3: Planning Principles and Priorities.
Planning
Principle/Priority
Decision Standard
Implementation Mechanism
Continue lateral pedestrian
access network with
consistent design and
amenities to the Lynnway
Lateral accessways shall be in the
locations and with design and amenity
requirements as shown and described in
the 2019 WOSMP for entire length
Required through the Secretary’s discretionary
provisions for a public benefits determination
under 301 CMR 13.00
Planning
Principle/Priority
Decision Standard
Implementation Mechanism
Require the use of nature-
based shorelines and
incorporation of increased
elevation to address future
climate-related impacts.
Where feasible and appropriate,
consistent with guidance from the 2019
WOSMP
Chapter 91 licensing
(j) Nantucket and Madaket Municipal Harbor Plan (December 21, 2009)
1. Table 1. Summary of amplifications
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Amplification
310 CMR 9.51: Conservation
of Capacity for Water-
dependent Use
A nonwater-dependent use
project on any tidelands shall
not unreasonably diminish the
capacity of such lands to
accommodate water-dependent
use. Facilities of Private
Tenancy must be developed in a
manner that prevents significant
conflicts in operation with
water-dependent uses that can
reasonably be expected to
locate on or near the water.
The amplification of these requirements prohibits any
new non-water dependent use, or extension of an
existing non-water dependent use, that would:
1. displace or significantly disrupt an existing water
dependent use;
2. unreasonably disrupt an existing water-dependent
use;
3. unreasonably diminish the capacity of the site to
accommodate future water-dependent uses; and
4. impede or infringe upon existing public access
310 CMR 9.51: Conservation
of Capacity for Water-
dependent Use
and 310 CMR 9.35(2)(a):
Standards to Preserve Water-
related Public Rights (Public
Navigation Rights Applicable
to All Waterways)
A nonwater-dependent use
project on any tidelands shall
not unreasonably diminish the
capacity of such lands to
accommodate water-dependent
use. Facilities of Private
Tenancy must be developed in a
manner that prevents significant
conflicts in operation with
water-dependent uses that can
reasonably be expected to
locate on or near the water.
The project shall not
significantly interfere with
public rights of navigation.
The amplification of these requirements prohibits
certain water-dependent uses determined in the Plan to
conflict with the traditional and historic use and
character of the Harbor Overlay District, including:
! Cruise ship terminals or support services;
! Personal watercraft rental; and
! New facilities of private tenancy.
310 CMR 9.35(3)(a)1. and 2.:
Standards to Preserve Water-
related Public Rights (Public
Rights of Fishing and Fowling
Applicable to Tidelands and
Great Ponds) and 310 CMR
9.35(2)(a): Standards to
Preserve Water-related Public
Rights (Public Navigation
Rights Applicable to All
Waterways)
The project shall not:
1. pose a substantial obstacle to
the public's ability to fish or
fowl in waterway areas adjacent
to the project site;
2. result in the elimination of a
traditional fishing or fowling
location used extensively by the
public; or
3. interfere with public rights of
navigation
The amplification of these requirements prohibits the
construction of new private docks or piers, but exempts
certain public or commercial water-dependent dock and
pier projects within the Harbor Overlay District.
(k) New Bedford Fairhaven Municipal Harbor Plan and DPA Master Plan (September 24,
2002, as renewed and amended on June 14, 2010)
1. Table 1. Substitute Standards and Offsetting Measures
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
Shoreline within MHP Planning Area and outside of the DPA
310 CMR 9.52(1)(b)1.:
Utilization of Shoreline for
Water-dependent Purposes
(Pedestrian access network)
“…walkways and related
facilities along the entire
length of the Water-
Dependent Use Zone;
wherever feasible, such
walkways shall be adjacent
to the project shoreline
and, except as otherwise
provided in a municipal
harbor plan, shall be no
less than ten feet in
width…”
Plan proposes to establish
a dedicated 20-foot wide
public access walkway
along the portion of New
Bedford and Fairhaven
shoreline that is located
outside the DPA and
within that portion of the
harbor bounded by the
hurricane barrier on the
South and the Rt. 195
bridge on the North.
No offsetting measures were
necessary as the proposed
substitution “will promote, with
comparable or greater
effectiveness, the state tidelands
policy objectives.”
2. Table 2: Planning Principles and Priorities.
Planning Principle/Priority
Decision Standard
Implementation
Mechanism
Notes
Area-wide
2010 MHP and 2020 MHP
Clarification approved Potential
Navigational Dredge Areas
(PNDA) and potential
Waterfront Development
Shoreline Facility (WDSF)
locations. Inclusion in the
MHP and Clarification allowed
these areas to be eligible for
navigational dredging and
potential filling of shoreline
facilities with clean material
through a stream-lined
permitting process within the
Superfund Regulations known
as the State Enhanced Remedy
(SER).
EPA makes all final
decisions on SER Work
Plans for PNDA’s and
WDSFs. Approved SER
activities are exempt from
all state and federal
procedural regulatory
requirements, but must
continue to meet all
substantive environmental
standards.
MADEP coordinates the
SER Work Plan reviews
and inputs from state and
federal agencies. EPA
makes all final decisions
on SER Work Plans for
PNDA’s and WDSFs.
See 2020 MHP Clarification
for potential PNDA and
WDSF location.
(l) (Provincetown Harbor Management Plan (May 4, 1999, as renewed and amended on
February 29, 2012 and April 10, 2019)
1. Table 1. Substitute standards and offsetting measures
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
Fisherman's Wharf
310 CMR 9.32(1)(a):
Categorical Restrictions on Fill
and Structures [Tideland
(Outside of ACECs and DPAs)]
Public walkway must be
located within the footprint
of the existing pile
supported structure
The required ten feet wide
walkway on the western
side of the wharf may be
located either within the
existing pier footprint or
cantilevered beyond the
footprint of the existing
pier.
Payment of $205,500 to the
Harbor Access Gift Fund
227R Commercial Street
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c):
Conservation of Capacity for
Water-dependent Use (Water-
dependent use zone)
New or expanded buildings
for nonwater-dependent
use, and parking facilities
at or above grade for any
use, shall not be located
within a water-dependent
use zone.
WDUZ reconfiguration (no
net loss); no less than 25
feet setback
N/A
310 CMR 9.51(3)(d):
Conservation of Capacity for
Water-Dependent Use (Lot
coverage)
At least one square foot of
the project site at ground
level (exclusive of areas
lying seaward of a project
shoreline) shall be
preserved as open space for
every square foot of
tideland area within the
combined footprint of
buildings containing
nonwater-dependent use on
the project site.
Lot Coverage shall not
exceed 60%
Monetary contribution to
Harbor Access Fund; Public
amenities. Amount to be
determined at time of licensing
2. Table 2. Summary of Amplifications.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Amplification
310 CMR 9.16(2)(c): Fees
(Tidewater displacement fee)
Except as provided in 310
CMR 9.16(4), prior to
issuance of a license for any
fill or structure that will
displace tidewaters below the
high water mark, the
applicant, or his or her heirs
or assignees responsible for
such displacement, shall, at
the discretion of [DEP] ....
[consider] a contribution to a
special fund or other program
managed by a public agency
or nonprofit organization in
order to directly provide
public harbor improvements.
The Provincetown Harbor Plan requires that tidewater
displacement fees levied by DEP be paid directly to
the Provincetown Harbor Access Fund, as described in
Section 6(a)(2) of this Plan.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Amplification
310 CMR 9.22(1): Maintenance,
Repair, and Minor Project
Modifications (Maintenance and
repair of fill and structures)
“No application for license or
license amendment shall be
required for [maintenance and
repair] activity. Maintenance
and repair include...
restoration to the original
license specifications of
licensed fill or structures that
have been damaged by
catastrophic events, provided
that no change in use occurs
and that... in the case of flood
related damage, the cost of
such restoration does not
exceed 50% of the cost of
total replacement according to
the original license
specifications...”
The Provincetown Harbor Plan calls for a strict
enforcement of this requirement and for close
coordination between DEP and the Provincetown
Building Inspector, to determine when further
licensing is required for structures that have been
damaged beyond the 50% replacement cost limit.
310 CMR 9.22(3): Maintenance,
Repair, and Minor Project
Modifications (Minor project
modifications)
The licensee may undertake
minor modifications to a
license project without filling
an application for license or
license amendment. Such
modifications are limited to...
No such modifications shall
be undertaken until the
licensee has submitted written
notice to the Department
describing the proposed work
in sufficient detail with
reference to any relevant
license plans, for the
Department to determine
compliance with the above
conditions.
The Provincetown Harbor Plan calls for strict
enforcement of this requirement and for DEP to
provide the Harbor Committee with opportunity to
review and comment upon any written notice of
proposed minor project modification.
(m) Salem Municipal Harbor Plan and DPA Master Plan (June 24, 2008)
1. Table 1. Substitute Standards and Offsetting Measures
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
310 CMR 9.51(3)(c):
Conservation of Capacity
for Water-dependent Use
(Water-dependent use
zone)
New or expanded buildings for
nonwater-dependent use, and
parking facilities at or above
grade for any use, shall not be
located within a water-
dependent use zone; except as
provided below, the width of
said zone shall be determined
as follows:
1. along portions of a project
shoreline other than the edges
of piers and wharves, the zone
extends for the lesser of 100
feet or 25% of the weighted
average distance from the
present high water mark to the
landward lot line of the
property, but no less than 25
feet;
The minimum width of the
WDUZ along the waterfront
will be no less than 20 feet;
the remaining area required by
the Chapter 91 WDUZ
calculation may be
redistributed to create
pedestrian/view corridors.
Applies only to Sub-area A
South Commercial Waterfront
District.
There can be no net loss of
WDUZ area. Requires the
creation of two permanent
pedestrian access corridors
and one permanent view
corridor linking the
downtown area of Salem to
the waterfront.
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e):
Conservation of Capacity
for Water-dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded buildings for
nonwater-dependent use shall
not exceed 55 feet in height if
located over the water or within
100 feet landward of the high
water mark; at greater landward
distances, the height of such
buildings shall not exceed 55
feet plus ½ foot for every
additional foot of separation
from the high water mark.
Allow non-water dependent
buildings to be 70 feet in
height, consistent with local
zoning.
Applies only in Sub-area A in
the South Harbor District.
Additional public open space
is required on the site
calculated by determining the
additional shadow cast at the
ground level by the
additional building mass
during full sun conditions on
October 23rd between 9:00
A.M. and 3:00 P.M. No more
than half the additional open
space may be used for
parking.
310 CMR 9.51(3)(e):
Conservation of Capacity
for Water-dependent Use
(Building height)
New or expanded buildings for
nonwater-dependent use shall
not exceed 55 feet in height if
located over the water or within
100 feet landward of the high
water mark; at greater landward
distances, the height of such
buildings shall not exceed 55
feet plus ½ foot for every
additional foot of separation
from the high water mark.
Allow non-water dependent
buildings to be 70 feet in
height, consistent with local
zoning.
Applies only in the Waterfront
Complex site at Pickering
Wharf.
Require the addition of a
ground-level public space in
a “turret” portion of the new
Harborwalk gateway adjacent
to Congress Street. Require
additional landscaping and
design elements to improve
appearance and to screen the
gateway from the building’s
loading and service areas.
Require construction of an
observation platform on the
southeast corner of Pickering
Wharf.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Substitution
Approved Offsetting
Measures
310 CMR 9.52(1)(b)1.:
Utilization of Shoreline for
Water-dependent Purposes
(Pedestrian access
network).
“…walkways and related
facilities along the entire length
of the Water-Dependent Use
Zone; wherever feasible, such
walkways shall be adjacent to
the project shoreline and,
except as otherwise provided in
a municipal harbor plan, shall
be no less than ten feet in
width…”
Require a dedicated 20-foot
wide public walkway around
the South River, of which a
minimum of ten feet shall be
an unobstructed pathway. The
inland ten feet will be used for
landscaping and accessory
amenities to enhance the
general public’s waterfront
experience.
Applies only in the South
River Waterfront Sub-area
The substitution directly
benefits the public through
improved access of 20 feet
instead of ten feet. No
additional offsetting benefit
is required.
2. Table 2. Summary of Amplifications.
Regulatory Provision
Chapter 91 Standard
Approved Amplification
310 CMR