New Stormwater Management Bylaw Adopted to Meet Strict Federal EPA Standards ####

Key Points

  • Updates town code to meet current federal and state stormwater standards
  • Establishes a permit threshold for land disturbance of one acre or more
  • Brings the town back into compliance with EPA MS4 regulations

Article 29 saw the adoption of a comprehensive new stormwater management bylaw intended to bring the town into compliance with current EPA regulations. Matt Kimlin of the Department of Public Works and Emily Serbo of Tighe & Bond explained that the previous bylaw, dating back to 2007, was out of date. The new regulations establish a permitting process for development and redevelopment projects involving more than one acre of land disturbance.

Motion: The board of public works moves that the town vote to amend the Marshfield Town Code Division 2 general bylaws chapter 246 storm water management by adding a new proposed chapter 246 storm water management as set forth in article 29 of the October 20th, 2025 special town meeting.

Vote: Passed by Majority

The bylaw is designed to prevent pollution from entering the town's storm drains and follows a state model for such regulations. The Advisory Board recommended approval, noting that the update was a necessary step to avoid non-compliance with federal standards. The article passed with minimal debate and significant support from the floor.