Bill > S1428

This bill aims to strengthen and clarify the legal framework for historic districts and commissions in Massachusetts by making several key modifications to existing laws. The bill provides a comprehensive set of provisions that expand the powers and responsibilities of local historical commissions, establishing a more robust process for reviewing and potentially preserving buildings with historical significance. Specifically, the bill creates a uniform process for evaluating requests to demolish or relocate buildings that are at least 50 years old, requiring public hearings and establishing a potential "preservation period" of 12-24 months during which alternatives to demolition can be explored. The legislation introduces new definitions for terms like "significant" buildings and provides detailed criteria for how commissions should assess historic value, including consideration of architectural style, historical associations, and cultural importance. The bill also grants historical commissions increased enforcement capabilities, including the power to issue stop-work orders, levy substantial fines for unauthorized demolitions (up to $25,000 per day), and impose long-term building permit moratoriums on properties where illegal demolitions occur. Additionally, the bill allows commissions to require comprehensive documentation of buildings before demolition and to hire outside consultants to assist in their review process, with costs to be paid by the applicant. These changes are designed to better protect historic architectural resources while providing a clear, transparent process for property owners seeking to modify or remove older structures.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1428