Boston’s New Underground Utility Mapping Requirements Are Transforming How Masonry Contractors Approach Excavation Projects in 2024
The landscape of masonry excavation in Boston has undergone significant changes in 2024, with new city ordinances requiring enhanced underground utility mapping procedures that directly impact how contractors plan and execute their projects. For property owners planning masonry work involving excavation, understanding these requirements is crucial for avoiding costly delays, safety hazards, and permit complications.
Understanding Boston’s Enhanced Excavation Permit System
Boston’s Public Works Department has strengthened its oversight of excavation activities through several key requirements. The surety bond amount for excavation permits has been set at $20,000, reflecting the city’s serious approach to protecting underground infrastructure. Contractors must apply for permits at least seven business days before beginning work, allowing adequate time for utility coordination and mapping verification.
The city’s Construction Coordination System (COBUCS) plays a central role in this process. Prior to issuing excavation permits, all entities must submit their proposed work into the COBUCS program for utility review and coordination, with companies able to request COBUCS accounts by contacting the CMD at 617-635-4950. This system ensures that all underground utilities are properly identified and protected before any digging begins.
Critical Utility Locating Requirements
One of the most significant changes affecting masonry contractors is the mandatory utility locating process. The Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC) at (617)989-7000 and the Dig-Safe Call Center at (888)344-7233 must be notified 72 hours (3 working days) prior to excavation. This requirement applies to all excavation work, regardless of size or scope.
Depending upon the type, complexity, and extent of the intended excavation, one or more sets of complete plans and related documents may be required to facilitate the determination of the exact locations of various parts of the work. This documentation helps assess risks to street users and effects on private property, trees, and street structures.
Impact on Masonry Projects
These enhanced requirements particularly affect masonry projects that involve foundation work, retaining wall installations, and patio excavations. For masonry cutting work, contractors must use wet saws for brick and masonry cutting, and for re-pointing work, mortar should be removed with hand tools when possible, with mechanical grinding requiring dust control measures including shrouding, waterspray, and vacuum systems.
Professional masonry contractors like masonry boston ma specialists have adapted their processes to accommodate these requirements. Academy Masonry’s reputation as a trusted masonry company in Boston, Middlesex County, and Suffolk County is built on years of satisfied customers, focusing on creating long-lasting relationships through honest communication, transparency, and a commitment to exceeding expectations on every job.
The Role of Professional Masonry Contractors
Working with experienced contractors becomes even more critical under the new ordinances. Academy Masonry and Construction brings 30 years of combined knowledge and experience handed down from generation to generation, standing as a testament to exceptional craftsmanship and commitment to excellence as a local, family-owned business with deep-rooted ties to the community.
As a fully licensed and insured masonry company prioritizing safety and security, Academy Masonry proudly serves the entire Boston area, providing expertise and services to both residential and commercial clients. This licensing and insurance coverage is particularly important given the increased liability associated with utility strikes and permit violations.
Planning and Timeline Considerations
The new requirements significantly impact project timelines. Construction permits are typically valid from April 15th until November 15th unless otherwise authorized by the BPWD and BTD, with the BPWD CMD requiring at least 24 hours advance notice for certain types of work. This seasonal restriction means property owners must plan masonry projects well in advance.
All private and public utilities, agencies, or parties excavating streets in the City of Boston right-of-way are required to attend monthly Utility Coordination meetings through their Utility Coordinator or representative, held at City Hall to discuss and coordinate current and future excavations.
Cost Implications and Best Practices
The enhanced requirements add both time and cost to masonry projects, but they also provide significant protection against utility strikes and associated liabilities. The base permit fee is $50, but additional costs may include utility locating services, extended planning time, and potential delays if conflicts are discovered.
Academy Masonry specializes in delivering high-quality masonry services that combine durability, beauty, and functionality, with skilled professionals having the expertise to bring visions to life, handling every project from small repairs to large-scale installations with precision and care, ensuring results that exceed expectations.
Looking Forward
Boston’s enhanced underground utility mapping requirements represent a significant step forward in construction safety and infrastructure protection. For property owners planning masonry work, the key to success lies in early planning, working with experienced contractors who understand the new requirements, and building adequate time into project schedules for the permit and coordination process.
When working with Academy Masonry, clients choose a contractor that values quality, durability, and aesthetics, understanding that homes and businesses are significant investments, dedicating themselves to enhancing beauty and functionality with expertly installed masonry that not only augments property appearance but also adds long-term value.
The investment in proper planning and professional execution pays dividends in avoiding utility strikes, permit violations, and project delays. As Boston continues to modernize its infrastructure oversight, property owners who work with knowledgeable contractors and follow proper procedures will find their masonry projects proceed smoothly while contributing to the city’s overall safety and infrastructure protection goals.