Massachusetts prevailing wage laws require employees on public works projects be paid a minimum hourly rate set by the Department of Labor Standards. The prevailing wage laws apply to both union and non-union employers and employees. Prevailing wages must be paid to covered workers on public works projects, whether they are employed by the general contractor, a filed sub-bidder, or any sub-contractor. These laws are enforced by the Attorney General's Office. Please see more information about Prevailing Wages here
Building and Construction Regulations
Massachusetts Inspector General's Office
The Massachusetts Inspector General's Office has a manual of legal requirements and practices for designing and constructing public facilities within the Commonwealth
Please see the full document here
ADA Compliance
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires all new construction of public buildings, as well as commercial facilities like office buildings, be accessible.
Prevailing Wages
Municipal projects over $10,000 must go through a bidding process where the Town sends out project plans in the form of an RFP (Request For Proposals) and accepts proposals from construction firms. The Select Board then reviews all proposals submitted and votes on the best choice for the Town.
Licensed Architect Requirement
For municipal construction projects with costs over $300.000.00 cities and towns are required by law to hire a licensed architect to develop plans that meet all State, Federal and departmental guidelines.
Build America, Buy America Act
The Build America, Buy America Act (BABAA) went into effect in may of 2022 and requires all federal agencies, including FEMA, that no federal financial assistance for infrastructure projects is provided unless the iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials used in the project are produced in the the United States
Fire Suppression Systems
Buildings 7500 square feet or more require a full fire suppression/ sprinkler system. Requirements include extension of fire service from the street to the building, a valve assembly, a “wet” zone for the main level rooms, and a “dry” zone, requiring galvanized piping, for the attic which requires a compressor.
Federal Funding
In order to qualify for Federal funding through loan and grant programs all above requirements must be met, as well as additional guidelines including environmental testing and Historical and Tribal site testing
Municipal Finance Laws
There are laws governing how and how much money cities and towns can borrow for projects. Please see Chapter 44 General Laws here.