Code of Massachusetts Regulations 350 CMR - DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION
Code of Massachusetts Regulations
350 CMR — Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)
350 CMR is the section of the Code of Massachusetts Regulations that contains rules and regulations issued by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). These regulations have the force of law and govern the management, protection, and use of state-owned lands, forests, parks, watersheds, and recreational facilities.
Purpose of 350 CMR
The regulations are intended to:
Protect public water supplies and watershed lands
Manage state parks, forests, and recreational areas
Preserve natural, cultural, and historic resources
Regulate public access and activities on DCR-managed properties
Ensure safety, environmental protection, and sustainable land use
Major Regulatory Sections
350 CMR 1.00 — Adjudicatory Proceedings
Establishes procedures for administrative hearings conducted by DCR
Covers notices, filings, hearings, evidence, and decisions
Applies to enforcement actions, permit disputes, and regulatory appeals
350 CMR 2.00 — Enforcement and Penalties
Authorizes DCR to enforce its regulations
Establishes fines, penalties, and compliance measures
Allows for corrective actions and administrative remedies
350 CMR 4.00 — State Parks and Recreation Areas
Regulates the use of state parks, beaches, forests, and recreational facilities
Governs permitted and prohibited activities such as camping, swimming, boating, and special events
Establishes rules for public conduct, safety, and facility use
350 CMR 5.00 — Forests and Wildlands
Governs management of state forests and forest reserves
Addresses timber harvesting, forest health, wildfire prevention, and habitat protection
Establishes restrictions on land use to preserve ecological integrity
350 CMR 8.00 — Drinking Water Supply Protection
Protects public water supply watersheds and reservoirs
Regulates land use, access, and activities within water supply protection areas
Controls development, waste disposal, and potentially polluting activities near water sources
350 CMR 11.00 — Roads, Trails, and Rights-of-Way
Regulates construction, maintenance, and use of roads and trails on DCR lands
Addresses public access, vehicle use, and safety standards
350 CMR 12.00 — Snowmobiles and Recreational Vehicles
Regulates use of snowmobiles and off-road recreational vehicles on DCR property
Establishes permit requirements, designated routes, and safety rules
Who Must Comply
Members of the public using DCR-managed lands
Municipalities and agencies operating on or near DCR property
Contractors and permit holders working on DCR lands
Organizations holding events or leases on DCR property
Legal Effect
Regulations in 350 CMR are legally enforceable
Violations may result in fines, loss of privileges, or enforcement actions
These regulations supplement state environmental and public safety laws
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