What is Act 250?

Per the State of Vermont’s Natural Resources Board:
“Act 250 is Vermont’s land use and development law, enacted in 1970 at a time when Vermont was undergoing significant development pressure. The law provides a public, quasi-judicial process for reviewing and managing the environmental, social and fiscal consequences of major subdivisions and developments in Vermont. It assures that larger developments compliment Vermont’s unique landscape, economy and community needs. One of the strengths of Act 250 is the access it provides to neighbors and other interested parties to participate in the development review process. Applicants often work with neighbors, municipalities, state agencies and other interested groups to address concerns raised by a proposed development, resolving issues and mitigating impacts before a permit application is filed.

How does the law work?

Act 250 permit applications are reviewed by one of nine District Environmental Commissions, whose volunteer citizen members are appointed by the Governor. Staff support is provided by full-time District Environmental Coordinators, who are located in five district offices throughout the state. District Coordinators also issue Jurisdictional Opinions on whether an Act 250 permit is required.

Specific program objectives of Act 250 include:

thoroughly reviewing each Act 250 permit application under the requirements of the statutory criteria;
performing permit reviews and determinations regarding Act 250 Jurisdiction as expeditiously as possible;
providing assistance to applicants and other parties in preparation for their participation in Act 250 proceedings;
assisting permittees in maintaining compliance with permit terms and conditions; and
enforcing the requirements of Act 250 permits and the statute.

The Act 250 criteria have protected many important natural and cultural resources — water and air quality, wildlife habitat and agricultural soils (just to name a few) — that have long been valued by Vermonters and that are an important part of the state’s economy. No single law can protect all of Vermont’s unique attributes — but Act 250 plays a critical role in maintaining the quality of life that Vermonters enjoy.” more….