Shellfish Department

ALL SHELLFISH FLATS ARE CLOSED DUE TO A PARALYTIC SHELLFISH POISON (RED TIDE) EVENT UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE EFFECTIVE JULY 16, 2021 AT 4:00 PM.

Digging, harvesting or collecting, attempting to dig, harvest or collect and/or the possession of shellfish or carnivorous snails during this time is punishable by a fine of $500. Please obey all posted signage.

Responsibilities

The Shellfish Department is responsible for monitoring Gloucester shellfish harvesting areas and enforcing both Gloucester shellfishing regulations and State of Massachusetts laws in order to conserve and protect the city’s shellfish resources and promote public health.

Permits & Other Documents

All permits are issued by the City Clerk’s office at City Hall. For office hours, please call (978) 281-9720. Be sure to view the Shellfish Resource Packet (PDF). Also, Color-Coded Map (PDF), regulations, and ordinances can be also obtained at the City Clerk’s office. For information on closures please contact the Shellfish Department 24 hour hotline at (978) 325-5245.  Non-Residents may apply for a one day or one year (July 1-June 30) non-commercial permit here.

Types of Permits & Fees

All permits expire on June 30 of each year.