Bill > H0291

This bill modifies Vermont's Use Value Appraisal (UVA) Program, which allows landowners to have their property taxed based on its current use (like agricultural or forest land) rather than its potential market value. Specifically, the bill introduces a new provision that increases the tax rate for land that is posted against hunting, fishing, or trapping under Vermont statute 10 V.S.A. § 5201. The Land Use Value Appraisal Board will be required to recommend a tax rate for such posted lands that is 25 percent higher than the difference between the land's use value and its grand list (market) value. This means landowners who restrict public access to their land for recreational activities will pay a higher tax rate compared to those who allow hunting, fishing, and trapping. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving landowners and local assessors time to prepare for the new tax assessment approach. The bill aims to potentially incentivize landowners to keep their land open for public recreational use by making it financially advantageous to do so.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.291