Code of Massachusetts Regulations 360 CMR - MASSACHUSETTS WATER RESOURCE AUTHORITY
Code of Massachusetts Regulations
360 CMR — Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA)
360 CMR is the section of the Code of Massachusetts Regulations that contains the rules adopted by the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). These regulations have the force of law and govern how MWRA manages water supply, sewer systems, enforcement, and administrative procedures.
Purpose of 360 CMR
The regulations are designed to:
Protect public drinking water supplies
Regulate wastewater discharges into the MWRA sewer system
Ensure proper operation and maintenance of water and sewer infrastructure
Establish enforcement authority and penalties
Promote water conservation and leak detection
Provide procedures for hearings and appeals
Major Regulatory Sections
360 CMR 1.00 — Adjudicatory Proceedings
Establishes procedures for administrative hearings conducted by MWRA
Covers notices, filings, representation, evidence, motions, and decisions
Applies when parties contest enforcement actions or other MWRA determinations
360 CMR 2.00 — Enforcement and Administrative Penalties
Authorizes MWRA to enforce its regulations
Establishes penalties for violations
Describes how penalties are assessed, appealed, and collected
360 CMR 10.00 — Sewer Use
Regulates what may and may not be discharged into the MWRA sewer system
Applies to municipalities, businesses, and industrial users
Prohibits discharges such as stormwater, hazardous substances, and untreated industrial waste
Requires pretreatment where necessary to protect sewer infrastructure and treatment plants
Establishes monitoring, reporting, and permitting requirements
Requires municipalities to adopt and enforce sewer-use ordinances consistent with MWRA rules
360 CMR 11.00 — Continuation of Contract Water Supply
Governs continued access to MWRA water for member communities
Sets requirements for water management, conservation, and use of local sources
Defines obligations tied to long-term water supply agreements
360 CMR 12.00 — Leak Detection Regulations
Requires communities using MWRA water to conduct regular leak detection
Promotes water conservation by reducing system losses
Establishes reporting and corrective action requirements
Who Must Comply
MWRA member municipalities
Industrial and commercial sewer users
Public agencies connected to MWRA systems
Contractors and permit holders working within MWRA jurisdiction
Legal Effect
360 CMR regulations are legally enforceable
Violations may result in fines, penalties, or enforcement actions
These regulations supplement state environmental laws and local bylaws
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