SECTION 14. Disposal of dredged materials

The department of environmental protection is hereby authorized and directed to issue permits for the disposal of dredged materials within the marine boundaries of the commonwealth when it is determined that such disposal and such disposed material will not unreasonably degrade or endanger the marine environment or public health. Said permit shall include such terms and conditions as said department finds necessary to assure conformance with this section and any other general or special law within its jurisdiction. No person shall so dispose of dredged material except pursuant to and in accordance with the terms and conditions of such a permit. Any violation of any provision of this section or any rule or regulation promulgated pursuant thereto, (a) shall be punishable by a fine of not more than twenty-five thousand dollars for each day that such violation occurs or continues, or by imprisonment for not more than one year, or both such fine and imprisonment; or (b) shall be subject to a civil penalty not to exceed twenty-five thousand dollars for each day that such violation occurs or continues.

Said department is further authorized and directed to promulgate rules and regulations for the transportation and disposal of such dredged material within the commonwealth so as to protect and enhance environmental quality, the public health, and natural resources.