Bill > S1326

This bill aims to facilitate the installation of solar energy systems in historic districts in Massachusetts. It amends the existing law to require historic district commissions to include a building contractor with at least 5 years of experience in the historical building trade and a solar energy systems industry representative as members. The bill also mandates that historic district commissions provide a written notice of denial for solar energy system applications within 14 days, including the rationale for the denial and recommendations for changes to improve the chance of approval upon resubmission. Additionally, the bill allows applicants to secure a waiver from the public hearing requirement for solar energy system installations if they obtain written signatures from 5 property owners within a mile of the residence or commercial structure. Finally, the bill establishes a special statewide commission to design, standardize, and draft suggested guidelines for compliant solar energy system installations within historic districts by December 1, 2022.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S1326