Bill > LD488

This bill amends Maine's Natural Resources Protection Act to allow property owners to obtain a permit from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to fortify residential buildings located in sensitive coastal areas like sand dune systems and wetlands, under specific conditions. The fortification would be permitted for existing buildings that were in place as of January 1, 2025, and are located in high-risk zones such as high-velocity flood zones (V-zones), special flood hazard areas, or regions determined by the DEP to be at high risk of storm surge, tidal erosion, or water damage. The bill sets strict limits on fortification, including a maximum of 500 cubic yards of fill covering no more than 2,500 square feet, with fill restricted to within 50 feet of the building's foundation. Additionally, fortified areas must be covered with appropriately sized rocks (riprap) and planted with native vegetation. The DEP is required to establish and adopt rules for such fortifications, which will be classified as routine technical rules. This legislation aims to help property owners protect their homes in vulnerable coastal areas while maintaining environmental protections.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=488&snum=132