The Conservation Commission's primary function is to review project applications and make determinations pursuant to the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Ch 131 sec. 40) and the local Newburyport Wetlands Ordinance. Projects range in size from small additions located near wetlands or water bodies to large developments that may impact wetland resources.

The Conservation Commission typically meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6:30pm in the City Council Chambers (call the Conservation Administrator to verify the meeting time and location). Hearings for projects will appear in the Newburyport Daily News and, if you are an abutter, you will receive notification by Certified Mail.

The public is welcome to attend commission meetings; go to the Agendas and Minutes section below to view upcoming meeting agendas. Note that agendas are subject to change up to 48 hours before a meeting.

To learn more, view a short video about Conservation Commissions in Massachusetts, created by the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions:

"Legacy: The Story of Massachusetts Conservation Commissions"

Conservation Commission Policies & Guidelines:

Newburyport Wetlands Ordinance

Wetland Protection Regulations

Administrative Fee Schedule (Appendix A of the Wetland Protection Regulations)

2012 Meeting Schedule and Application Deadlines

Plum Island Filing Guidelines

Meeting Continuance Policy

Rules for Hiring Outside Consultants

Conservation Restrictions Certification Policy

Coastal Resources:

Coastal Zone Managment's Coastal Landscaping Guide

Coastal Zone Management's StormSmart Coasts Program

Landscaping to Protect your Coastal Property

Using "Freeboard" to Elevate Structures - Save on Insurance!

FEMA Fact Sheets - Home Builder's Guide to Coastal Construction

Links:

MA Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP)

MA DEP Public Access to Wetland Notices of Intent

MA Association of Conservation Commissions (MACC)

Flood Mapping

Beach Management Plan

Beach Management Plan Presentation