Recognizing the importance of inland wetlands and watercourses to the health of the environment and quality of life in Enfield, the Town Council established, by ordinance, the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency. The authority for creating this local regulatory agency comes from CT General Statutes, Sections 22a-36 to 22a-45 inclusive.

The duties of this agency involve carrying out and effectuating the purpose and policies of "The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Act" of the state, which also recognizes the importance of protecting and preserving these features in the public interest, for the health, welfare, and safety of the citizens of the state.

The agency is responsible for regulating and permitting any proposed clearing, filling, excavation, paving, grading and discharge of storm water in and within 100 feet of any wetlands and/or watercourses. This 100 foot "regulated upland review area" extends to 200’ for proposed activities along the Connecticut and Scantic Rivers, Beamans Brook and Freshwater Brook, upstream of Elm Street crossing (excluding tributaries). Activities occurring outside of these upland review areas that still have potential to negatively impact wetlands and/or watercourses may also be regulated by this agency.

Agency Powers

The agency enforces all provisions of the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Act and shall issue, with or without modifications, or deny permits for all regulated activities involving inland wetlands, watercourses and upland review areas in the Town of Enfield. The agency also provides, through regulation, the manner in which the boundaries of inland wetland and watercourse areas in the town shall be established, amended or changed.