Lake Massapoag Protection and Procedures

Lake Massapoag is not only a place for recreational enjoyment for residents and lake enthusiasts, but one of Massachusetts’ highly valued waterbodies or Great Ponds. Please be advised that any project located in, on, over or under the water of a great pond is within the jurisdiction of Chapter 91.

The Conservation Commission also administers local jurisdiction for any activities or proposed work within a waterbody or within 100-feet thereof. Therefore, it is advised that any potential applicants contact the Conservation Department prior to installing any "new" floats, docks, piers, or proposed alteration or disturbance within 100 feet of Lake Massapoag. Failure to receive approval through a permit may lead to enforcement and penalties.

What is Chapter 91?  

Chapter 91, Otherwise known as the Massachusetts Public Waterfront Act is the oldest program of its kind in the nation which regulates activities on both coastal and inland waterways, including construction, dredging and filling in tidelands, great ponds and certain rivers and streams.

Under Chapter 91, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts seeks to preserve and protect the rights of the public, and to guarantee that private uses of tidelands and waterways serve a proper public purpose. The Waterways Regulation Program, the section of MassDEP that oversees Chapter 91, is the primary division charged with implementing the "public trust doctrine."

For additional information on applicability please direct your questions here : 

Chapter 91, Massachusetts Public Waterfront Act

Chapter 91 Frequently Asked Questions

How are Invasive Species handled?

As for invasive species, the Lake Massapoag Advisory Committee, with review by and assistance from the Conservation Commission, has long been working to control, and eradicate where possible, the invasive species of fanwort and milfoil within the Lake.

The town also relies on residents and boat enthusiasts to be good stewards to ensure no new aquatic invasive species are deposited to Lake Massapoag. For additional information on boating procedures please refer to our :Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Procedures