Bill > H2120

This bill authorizes cities and towns in Massachusetts to establish ridgeline and hillside protection district review boards. The key provisions include: - Defining the terms "ridgeline", "hillside", "selective cutting", and "substantial exterior alteration" for the purposes of the legislation. - Outlining the purpose of the legislation, which is to promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the cities and towns by preserving natural resources, minimizing visual impact, and protecting existing historical features. - Allowing cities and towns to establish a review board of up to 5 members to oversee development within the designated ridgeline and hillside protection districts. - Prohibiting certain uses in the districts unless they are permitted or approved by the review board. - Establishing standards for building design, landscaping, and other site features to blend with the natural environment and preserve the scenic character of the district. - Requiring landowners to submit an application for review and approval by the board before undertaking any work, except for certain permitted uses. - Allowing landowners to appeal the board's decisions to the local zoning board of appeals. The bill also specifies that it does not apply to any work or project completed prior to its effective date.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H2120