New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules
Env - Department of Environmental Services
Subtitle Env-Wt - Wetlands Programs
Chapter Env-Wt 500 - PROJECT-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
Part Env-Wt 517 - TRAILS, PATHWAYS, AND BOARDWALKS
Section Env-Wt 517.05 - Design and Construction Requirements for Boardwalks

Universal Citation: NH Admin Rules Env-Wt 517.05

Current through Register No. 13, March 27, 2025

In addition to meeting the applicable design and construction criteria in Env-Wt 300, boardwalks shall meet the following design and construction requirements:

(a) Boardwalks shall not be located in or through any PRA if the use associated with the boardwalk would jeopardize the continued existence of protected species or habitat;

(b) To allow for circulation of air and water and penetration of light, boardwalks shall be designed and constructed:

(1) To be elevated not less than 4 feet for tidal wetlands and at least 2 feet for non-tidal wetlands above the ground surface or normal high water line, as applicable; and

(2) With grating, or slatted decking with boards no wider than 8 to 10 inches, spaced no less than 0.75 inches apart, or if necessary to meet ADA requirements, no less than 0.5 inches apart;

(c) Boardwalks shall be at least 3 feet wide and no wider than 6 feet;

(d) Boardwalks crossing wetlands shall be designed and located to:

(1) Allow for movement of wildlife and maintain density and vigor of vegetation; and

(2) Minimize interference with the natural hydrology of the area;

(e) Boardwalks shall incorporate features designed to educate users about the importance of wetlands, transition areas, and public waters;

(f) Boardwalks shall be constructed using top-down construction methods, helical piles, and other methods to limit impacts to sensitive wetlands and surface waters;

(g) A boardwalk shall not be supported by horizontal support timbers, otherwise known as sleepers, on or in the soil, except that on hiking trails, a log foot bridge may have timber sleepers on the soils; and

(h) The root mat and soil under and around the boardwalk shall not be disturbed except to drive pilings.

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