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Insulating pipes in unheated spaces, like the basement, can reduce your wait time for warm water during the cold months.
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New Construction
If you are planning a new construction project or renovation involving Boston Water and Sewer Commission’s (BWSC) water, sewer or storm drain systems, you will need to familiarize yourself with the site plan approval process. Basically, it is a two-step process. The first step is the submission of the Site Plan with supporting documents, drawings, permits, etc. Once BWSC approves the Site Plan, the second step involves the establishment of a new account (if applicable) in conjunction with the completion of the General Service Application (GSA). In addition to information on the Site Plan Requirements and GSA filing, this section will also provide a menu of other supporting documents, guidelines and forms as well as other helpful information that you may need to successfully complete the site plan and permitting processes. To review any BWSC regulations, please visit the Regulations page.
If you have questions regarding this process, please contact BWSC’s Engineering Customer Services at 617-989-7600.
Step 1
Site Plan Requirements
When planning a new construction or renovation project, this is the first step in the process. This document outlines the requirements necessary for submitting a Site Plan to BWSC. Once approved by BWSC, Site Plans are valid for one year. In many situations, BWSC’s approved Site Plan is a prerequisite for future city permitting. You will need to also download and submit the following:
General Site Plan Form
This form provides information about the project, such as address, owner’s name, ward, parcel number and telephone number.
Site Plan Checklist
A helpful step-by-step checklist that identifies requirements as well as various forms needed to prepare and submit a Site Plan.
ACAD Standards
This document contains BWSC’s site plan ACAD standards for design and as-built drawings.
ACAD Checkout List
The checklist outlines all of the information necessary to complete an ACAD drawing using BWSC’s AutoCad Standards.
Street Numbering Form
This form must be issued and verified by the City of Boston’s Inspectional Services Department (ISD), which officially identifies the street and street number where the work will take place. Forms are available at the ISD’s offices, 1010 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA The verified form will then be submitted to BWSC.
Water Data
Requirements regarding water connections and meters.
Sewer Data
Requirements regarding sewer and storm drain connections and mains.
Backwater Valve Installation
Regulations and the guidelines for the installation of backwater valves for homes and businesses in low-lying areas of Boston.
Backflow Prevention Device and (Cross Connection)
Guidelines and instructions for installing a backflow prevention device that protects drinking water from contamination.
Easement Request
This form is required when the applicant wishes to grant BWSC an easement such as a right in private land or a private way.
Fire Flow Testing
BWSC conducts fire flow testing for engineers, developers and sprinkler design companies. The tests provide actual pressure and flow data measured at specific fire hydrants.
Grit and Oil Separators
When outdoor parking and paved areas are being drained, a grit and oil separator must be installed. The need for separators for indoor parking garages may also be required.
Water/Sewer Mark Out Request
Prior to excavation, a Mark Out Request should be completed which will include the Dig Safe Number.
As-Builts
Describes the requirements necessary for submitting as-built drawings when a project involves any work on water mains, sewers or storm drains other than standard service connections or for projects requiring infiltration systems onsite.
Step 2
General Service Application (GSA) Procedures
After BWSC approves the Site Plan and the supporting documents, the second step involves the establishment of a new account (if applicable) and the preparation and issuance of a GSA. The GSA must be issued prior to any construction such as the installation of water or sewer services, fire pipe service, storm drain connections, new mains or appurtenances. In addition, any water and sewer account, which the owner may have, must be current.
AutoCAD Templates
The drawing templates below are in AutoCAD formats 2000, 2004 and 2010. They have been developed to include Commission standard layers, colors, symbols, and forms that must be present on all plans submitted.