Boston Environment Department – Boston, MA

Boston Environment Department

Sustainability and Preservation

The Boston Environment Department, located in City Hall, is the central agency responsible for enhancing the quality of life in Boston through the protection of air, water, and land resources. This department supports the Conservation Commission in regulating wetlands and the Landmarks Commission in preserving historic districts. It also leads the city’s climate action initiatives, including ‘Carbon Free Boston’ and the Building Emissions Reduction and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO), which aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from large buildings. 🌿🏙️

Regulatory Services

Residents and developers interact with this department primarily for permitting related to construction near wetlands, floodplains, or within historic districts. The office also manages the Noise Control Ordinance and Air Pollution Control Commission. Visitors to Room 709 can receive assistance with filing applications, though many resources and hearing schedules are available online. As part of the city’s ‘Green New Deal,’ the department actively promotes energy efficiency and environmental justice across all neighborhoods. ⚡📜

• Wetlands: Permits for work near water bodies (Conservation Commission).
• History: Oversight of alterations in designated historic districts.
• Pollution: Enforcement of air quality and noise regulations.