Application
Effective Jan 30, 2026Mass. Register #1566MGL c. 21A, § 2 MGL c. 30A, § 3 MGL c. 130, §§ 2, 17B, 23, 24, 25, 27, 28, 57, 69, 80, 82 and 104Division of Marine Fisheries
(1) Each applicant for a new aquaculture permit pursuant to 322 CMR 15.05 shall provide the following information on forms provided by the agency:
(a) Class 1 System.
- 1. Detailed Site Plan;
- 2. Detailed system layout, including water treatment systems;
- 3. Detailed operational plan (species, planting density, feeding rates, etc.);
- 4. Waste disposal plan (including solids, culls, and water).
(b) Class 2 System.
- 1. Same as 322 CMR 15.05(1)(a);
- 2. Proposed discharge, including volume and treatment, if required;
- 3. Evidence of DEP Water Quality Certification or exemption;
- 4. Evidence of NPDES Permit or exemption;
- 5. Evidence of permits for intake and discharge structures.
(c) Class 3 System (shellfish with minimal structures).
- 1. Detailed site plan including latitude and longitude of corners;
- 2. Geophysical site characteristics;
- 3. Benthic habitat conditions;
- 4. Proposed species, quantities, and densities;
- 5. Proposed physical structures;
- 6. Evidence of Municipal Shellfish Aquaculture License or conditional approval;
- 7. Evidence of Municipal Wetlands Permit or determination of non-applicability;
- 8. Evidence of application for Corps of Engineers, section 404 Permit or PGP;
- 9. Transcript of local public hearing.
(d) Class 4 System (shellfish or algae with significant structures).
- 1. Same as 322 CMR 15.05(1)(c);
- 2. Evidence of application for Army Corps of Engineers Section 10 Permit.
- (e) Class 4 System (general).
1. Detailed site plan including latitude and longitude of corners;
- 2. Geophysical site characteristics;
- 3. Benthic habitat conditions;
- 4. Proposed species, quantities, and densities;
- 5. Proposed physical structures;
- 6. Detailed operational plan (species, density, feeding rates, etc.);
- 7. Containment plan to prevent escapees;
- 8. Predator exclusion plan;
- 9. Anticipated habitat degradation issues and plan to minimize (Best Management Practices);
- 10. Disposal plan for culls and gear;
- 11. Evidence of performance bond sufficient to remove structures and restore site to its original condition;
- 12. Evidence of Water Quality Certification and NPDES Permit, if applicable.
- (2) Renewals. Annual renewal of all existing permits may be made without supporting documentation provided no changes in use occur.