Office Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Monday through Friday
Conservation Division Overview
The Conservation Division serves three primary purposes:
to administer and enforce state and local wetlands protection codes, as well as the state Stormwater Management Policy
to manage over 1,300 acres of town-owned conservation land and monitor conservation easements and restrictions
to conduct outreach and education regarding the town's natural resources and watersheds
Conservation Division in the News>>
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission serves to protect and preserve the natural resources of the town and to acquire land for conservation and recreation purposes. A major aspect of the Conservation Commission’s work is to protect the streams, rivers, and wetlands in Lexington by overseeing the permitting process for activities that may affect these areas. Learn more>>
Wetlands Protection
The Wetlands Protection Act (Massachusetts General Law Chapter 131, Section 40) prohibits any filling, excavation, or other alteration of the land surface or vegetation in wetlands, floodplains, or within 100 feet of wetlands, regardless of ownership, without a permit from the local Conservation Commission. Town rules (Chapter 130) also apply to activities that may impact wetlands. Anyone seeking to do any work within 100 feet of a wetland, 200 feet of a river or stream, or in any area that may cause additional runoff into a wetland, river, or stream must obtain prior approval of the Conservation Commission. Learn more>>
Conservation Land
Over 1,300 acres--or approximately 12% of the town's area--have been protected in Lexington either as town-owned conservation lands or as conservation restrictions or easements. This conserved land provides our town with wildlife habitat, ecosystem services such as air and water filtration, and recreational and educational opportunities. We invite you to explore one of our 27 conservation areas, including places like Willard's Woods, Dunback Meadow, and Whipple Hill. Learn more>>
Lexington Conservation Stewards