Developers and contractors doing work in the City have a responsibility to protect water resources and minimize pollution from their site. During construction, contractors must use proper erosion and sedimentation controls. Developers must meet City’s requirements for stormwater management following the Wastewater and Stormwater Guidance below. For information regarding the Stormwater Control Permit and to apply online, click here.
Wastewater and Stormwater Guidance:
The Wastewater and Stormwater Management Guidance document was developed to provide guidance for construction projects, development, and redevelopment projects in the City of Cambridge to ensure that measures are taken throughout the project to address erosion, nonpoint source pollution, stormwater quality and flood control. These measures are necessary to protect the City’s infrastructure and natural water resources. The City is also required to comply with the City’s permits issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through their National Pollution Discharge Elimination (NPDES) programs related to stormwater and combined sewer overflows.
The DPW Wastewater and Stormwater Management Guidance Document is currently being updated. The update document is expected to be available in 2026. Until the full update is available, please refer to the June 2021 Supplemental Directive below.
June 2021 Supplemental Directive to Wastewater and Stormwater Management Guidance.
Wastewater and Stormwater Management Guidance_ Draft_May 2008
Appendix A: Best Management Practices_Draft_March 2008
Appendix B: Common Pollutants_Draft_January 2008
Appendix C: TMDL Information_Refer to Attachment A in 2021 Supplemental Directive
Appendix D: Technical Basis for Stormwater Quantity Guidelines
Appendix E: Example Calculations for Water Quality Control Runoff Volume_Draft_January 2008
Appendix F: Cambridge 2070 Projected Event (Refer to June 2021 Supplemental Directive
Appendix G: Stormwater Control Permit Checklists_September 2019
Construction Erosion and Sedimentation Control:
When loose soil leaves construction sites, it can clog storm drains and pollute downstream rivers and streams. Developers are responsible for minimizing stormwater pollution from construction sites through the use of erosion and sedimentation best management practices (BMPs). Erosion and sedimentation BMPs must be in place prior to the start of site work and should be inspected regularly as well as before and after storm events to ensure they are functioning.
Link to City of Cambridge Erosion and Sedimentation Control Training
Link to City of Cambridge Fact Sheet for Construction Erosion Control
City of Cambridge Standard Specs and Details for Construction ESC